Teacher Spotlight: Coach Helm

Kelly Honts, Web Editor

1. Please write a little bit about your life outside of school. 
We love to take the family down to Town Lake and cool off in Barton Springs when we get the chance.  My wife Yaneth, daughter Ximena, baby Victoria, and lab Sug round out the Helm clan.  I’m currently training to qualify to run the Boston Marathon again.  I was fortunate enough to run Boston in ’04  and ’09;   now I want to qualify and take my new family!  : )
2. What made you want to teach/coach? 
My literature professor in college had a profound influence on me.  His dynamic teaching coupled with my love for running inspired me to pursue a career in teaching and coaching.
3. What is your favorite part about being a teacher at Vandegrift? 
Seeing students excel and reach new goals would be my favorite part about teaching at Vandegrift.  I am so lucky to be able to share in the experience of seeing their new accomplishments and added enthusiasm.
4. What should students expect for the year?/what is your classroom environment like?
Students should expect to have their own voice and be an active participant in my classroom.  On-circle discussions and collaborative work is common place in my weekly lesson.   Our class is structured to build community while gaining perspective.
5. What is one fun fact about yourself?
While in college, I worked at a bingo hall and called numbers.  I definitely saw some interesting people and was a broadcasting major in college.  Later, I realized that my love was in teaching and coaching.