Meet: Howard McCoy: Founding 6 & 7th Grade Social Studies Teacher @ChangeMakers Academy

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Howard is a rock star teacher at Caliber: ChangeMakers Academy! His dedication and passion is palpable when you walk into his classroom.  We are truly lucky to have Howard be part of the Caliber family! 

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 Words about Howard from his coworkers: 
"Howard is a pleasure to work with! He always finds a way to make everyone laugh in the midst of dealing with our darling (and crazy) middle school kiddos! Students love his class because it is engaging and they love his projects! I am honored to work with him!"

"So happy he is being recognized!
Howard is an incredible educator. This is due to the amazing things students achieve in his classroom, but also because of the strong relationships he builds with students. He is able to push students to grapple with real issues that impact them as people because he has built a classroom environment where students feel safe to explore and be who they truly are. On top of that, he is hilarious and a delight to be around.! He is such an asset to the CMA family. " 

"Howard is such a strong and professional presence in the building. He takes his teaching, content, and relationships seriously and the kids are invested in his class as a result. I love seeing Howard in the hallway or lounge because he is always positive and friendly. Howard is just one of those great guys that you always feel lucky to have on your team!"

A recent interview with Howard: 
What is your favorite thing about working at Caliber?
What stands out for me is the diversity of our staff, students, and families. In my 20+ years of teaching, I have NEVER worked in a place that TRULY represents all the rich diversity that we are SO fortunate to have. I appreciate that I can be my true self at Caliber: ChangeMakers Academy, and not leave anything at the gate. I also really enjoy my students and co-workers; the students give me joy and I really enjoy the comradery I have with my colleagues.

What was your favorite subject when you were in school and why?
I didn't have a favorite subject in school, as much as I had a favorite teacher - In 3rd grade, Mrs. Hamilton, and in high school, Mr. Donohoe, my history teacher. Both of them met me where I was, and helped me to be the person I am today. Especially Mr. Donohoe!

What is your favorite memory associated with music (maybe a memorable concert, or playing an instrument yourself!)?
I played the trumpet throughout junior high and high school. I remember in high school, we marched in the Compton Christmas Parade, and our song for the competition was, "Glamorous Life", by Sheila E. It was AWESOME!
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If you could go on a dream vacation, what would you do + where would you go?
For my dream vacation, it has to be anywhere with beaches. I grew up in SoCal (Compton), so I need to be somewhere warm and with playa! So I'd have to say somewhere in the South Pacific, South Asia (Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, etc.), or the Caribbean.

What is your favorite thing about the Bay Area (or specifically Vallejo )?
SO many food options!

What is one fun fact that most people don't know about you?
I played Lacrosse in high school, college, and on a club adult team. You don't see many African Americans from Compton playing Lacrosse