New Tech High students present culture‑based AP literature projects to Coppell ISD board

Dr. Shivers introduced an Innovative Learning presentation from New Tech High Coppell, saying the program emphasizes project‑based learning and student voice. Samantha Beatty, an AP literature and language teacher at New Tech, told the board the class asks students to answer a single core question: "what can you learn about a culture solely through literature."

Three students then summarized semester‑long projects. Andy Coffey, who researched China, said the Cultural Revolution appeared across almost every text he read and credited New Tech with improving his public speaking. Gabby Gunderson, who studied Greece, described comparing ancient and modern texts and learning how language and currency evolved. Omar Andre Sanchez, who focused on Mexican culture, said his research challenged assumptions about how Spanish spread in Mexico and that the project strengthened skills useful for future interviews and presentations.

The presentation was followed by congratulations from trustees and recognition of parents and evaluators who assessed the projects. The board also used the moment to celebrate district achievements; Dr. Shivers noted that "Coppell ISD was recently named the number 1 school district in Dallas County," and trustees recessed into awards honoring athletic and fine‑arts state placements. The district framed the showcase as a demonstration of how hands‑on, research‑based instruction builds both content knowledge and communication skills for college‑level work.