Cape Coral High School is making significant changes this year, particularly in the English department which has expanded to include a total of 12 teachers for the 2024-2025 school year. This expansion is a direct response to the steady increase in student enrollment, which has caused classrooms to become overcrowded in recent years. 

With the student population now exceeding 2,000, the school recognized the urgent need to make adjustments that would benefit both students and teachers alike.The English department’s growth is particularly noteworthy, as it is now welcoming some new faces to the department whilst some familiar faces remain. Four teachers are returning from previous years, while eight brand new teachers have joined the team, each bringing their unique perspectives and skills to Cape High this school year.

This significant increase in staff is expected to bring about substantial improvements, noticeably reducing class sizes, which has been a growing concern in recent years.

Smaller class sizes are anticipated to have a positive impact on the quality of education, as they will allow teachers to give more individualized attention to each student. Kelly Seaton, an IB English teacher who has been with Cape High for several years, shares her excitement about the changes for this fall.

 “Adding more positions in the English department is a really positive development. Smaller class sizes mean that teachers will have more time to grade assignments and work closely with their students, which is so important for effective teaching and learning,” Seaton explained.

Seaton recognizes the impact that these changes will no doubt have on the department. With more time to focus on each student, teachers can better assets and respond to individual strengths and weaknesses, fostering a more supportive and effective learning environment. 

By increasing the number of teachers, the school is taking important steps to ensure that students receive the attention and support they need to thrive. This move is expected to create a more effective and enjoyable learning environment, benefiting both students and teachers alike.

Among the new additions to the English department is Elena Delgado, teaching twelfth-grade English. Delgado has an abundance of experience, having taught across all high school grades, including IB programs, and is eager to start the new academic year. “I’m really looking forward to getting to know the students. I’ve always enjoyed teaching high school, and I’m excited about this fresh start and the opportunity to get back into the classroom,” Delgado said.

Another new teacher coming to the English department includes Linsey Uphoff, Uphoff will be teaching English one and English one honors. Uphoff has previously taught high school and middle school.

“I’m excited for, like, a fresh start, a new beginning, a new chapter. It’s a new chapter in my teaching career. It’s a new grade level, new school, new students. I just love everything new. So I’m super excited just getting to know my students, getting to know my athletes.” Shares Uphoff 

Uphoffs excitement for a “fresh start” is a great example of everyone’s excitement and hopes going into the new school year. This enthusiasm is contagious and no doubt will inspire students to have a bright outlook on the new school year.

The expansion of the English department offers several benefits beyond just academic improvement. With more teachers on board, there will be more opportunities for one-on-one interactions between teachers and students.

 This is crucial not only for academic support but also for addressing behavioral issues that may arise in the classroom. When teachers have the time and space to build strong relationships with their students, they can better understand each student’s individual learning style and needs. 

This understanding creates a more comfortable and supportive learning environment, where students feel valued and are more likely to stay engaged in class making the school days more productive in general.

In essence, the expansion of Cape Coral High School’s English department represents a significant and positive shift towards improving the educational experience for everyone involved.