New science teacher and assistant soccer coach Henry Daniels brings his enthusiasm and experience to the Hill’s 24-25 school year. A graduate of Mississippi State University, Daniels is in his 2nd year of teaching, having spent last year at Southaven High School. Here, he shares his journey and insights into his role at CHHS.

Question: What do you like so far about Center Hill?

Daniels: I like the feeling of freedom that the students have here. They all feel like they are at home.

Question: What would you like the CHHS family to know about your family?

Daniels: I would like them to know that I come from a family with good morals, and I hope that I show that in my work.

Question: What is one interesting fact about you that might surprise other people?

Daniels: One interesting fact is that I played college soccer.

Question: Growing up, what teacher inspired you the most?

Daniels: My 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Watson, inspired me the most. She was always the most fun, and I definitely learned the most in her class.

Question: What made you want to become a teacher?

Daniels: I wanted to become a teacher because I wanted to coach. The two go hand in hand, and it turns out that both roles make me better at the other.

Question: What is one life lesson that you want to pass down to your students?

Daniels: I want my students to learn discipline—to do the things they don’t want to do because they have to be done.

Question: Which fictional teacher do you feel your teaching style resembles the most?

Daniels: I would say Mrs. Frizzle from The Magic School Bus because I present information in a way that’s not boring and sometimes wacky.

Question: What is a quote that you live by?

Daniels: “Discipline is freedom.”

Question: How long have you wanted to become a teacher?

Daniels: Since my senior year of high school.

Question: What is one goal that you have as a teacher?

Daniels: I want to get my master’s degree.

Question: What makes Center Hill High School different from other schools where you’ve taught?

Daniels: The freedom the students have here, coupled with their responsibility, sets this school apart.

Question: What is one of your favorite memories as a teacher?

Daniels: Probably all the successful lessons where students were engaged and excited, not just the results on tests or quizzes.

Question: What do you expect from your students? What should they expect from you?

Daniels: I expect them to have pride in everything they do, and they should expect the same from me.