About Mr. Soules

 

CLASSROOM MISSION STATEMENT:

  

My philosophy is to cultivate a classroom that allows for free mindedness with a willingness to be reflective with thought provoking discussion. This would include creating a classroom environment that will be remembered as more than just a class, but have a willingness to listen to all points of view, and be organized to present the material in a way that is understood by all. Additionally, my social studies classroom will give students the state standards they need with the ability to answer questions with more than just a yes or a no but to think critically about the past, present, and even the future.

 

GETTING TO KNOW MR. SOULES:


If you could have lunch with 1 person dead or alive, who would that be and why?

I would want to eat lunch religiously with Jesus Christ and ask about the creation of the world, his teachings, etc.   Historically though I think I would like to have lunch with the old NFL play by play man Pat Summerall and why he broadcasted games the way he did, why he chose football, and why he also broadcasted golf even. 

What is something on your Bucket List?

Something on my bucket list is to travel to the Philippines to visit with family and because I have never really been to Asia. I also want to be on the Price is Right. 

What book have you read that changed you and why?

Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson, this book taught me that it is okay to have things a little out of place and that it is okay to not have things be perfect. Change can be difficult and this book helped me to see that it doesn't have to be so bad at all. 

What is your favorite thing about teaching or working with young people?

My favorite thing about teaching and working with young people are that we get to have conversations about history, geography, pop culture, and I love to hear what students have to say about what they are going to do in the world. 

How would a friend describe you in three words?

My friend would describe me as hardworking, decent, and patient.

If you had to compare yourself to one fictional character, who would it be and why?

I would compare myself to Captain Picard or Captain Sisko from Star Trek, where they have to make the tough decisions but they do it with the help of others' opinions and make the final decisions boldly. They are also confident which I want to try to emulate every day! 

What is the best BAD decision you ever made?

Living with my parents after getting married and having 3 kids with us. It taught me that everyone does not have somewhere to live that is good in this world and it also taught me not to take things for granted especially food, clothes, medicine, and the ability to work.

When are you most yourself?

I am probably most myself when watching TV, Star Trek, Sports, teaching students about history especially when it comes to pop culture, and when I am at Church. 

What could you spend all day talking about?

Sports for sure. Historical events and religion. 

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

I enjoy reading biographies, especially broadcasters who have watched the news unfold, I also enjoy being with my family, camping, fishing, of course watching all major sports, and I watch Star Trek.


PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

 

DEGREE:

  • Professional Accomplishments: 2019 Discover Financial Services Excellence Award Winner, Eagle Scout,
  • Bachelors Degree from University of Utah
  • Masters Degree from South Dakota State
 
  • LICENSE:
  • Currently, Associate Social Studies Composite Teaching License, currently working toward completing professional educator license.