Students can further enhance their critical thinking abilities thanks to a new teacher in the English department, Ken Nguyen. Nguyen teaches two periods of English 10 and three periods of AP English Language.

Nguyen grew up in Seattle and earned his bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in general psychology from Seattle University. Upon graduation, Nguyen felt motivated and inspired to pursue his passions of becoming a teacher.

“Other than saving people’s lives, it’s the only meaningful and purposeful thing that anyone can do,” said Nguyen. “I wanted to commit to something in which I was making a difference somewhere.”

Nguyen began his teaching career at Leland High School in San Jose as an AP English Literature and sophomore English instructor. However, after six years at Leland, he wanted a new teaching experience and applied for a job at Saratoga High School.

“I just heard so many great things about Saratoga High from a lot of people, so I decided to apply here,” he said.

Nguyen was glad to learn that he had landed the job from the school district and looked forward to contributing to the SHS environment. However, he was overcome by feelings of nervousness when coming to school on the first day.

“At first, when I entered my classroom, I was extremely nervous. But then, the kids were really great and the atmosphere was good. There was great support from the faculty, and it has been a nice transition.”