MEET THE STAFF: Ray Sweat

Feb 22, 2024

Coach Sweat

Position: English teacher and cross country/track coach
Degrees & Alma Mater: Sam Houston State University: Mass communications bachelor degree and English bachelor degree.
School Activities: Cross country/track coach
Years at Caney Creek: 8
Years Teaching: 11

Questions

How would other people describe your high-school self?

Skinny and nerdy. I played video games, read fantasy books, and didn’t have a girlfriend until my senior year.

Keep scrolling to read more!

Was there a career you wanted to pursue OR pursued before teaching?

I always dreamed of becoming a soccer player but stopped playing in high school due to family issues, but I knew I didn’t have a chance of going pro. I didn’t know what I wanted to do for the longest time, but then I found the joys of teaching.

Tell us about how you got into teaching.

I found myself teaching other employees at other jobs I had and they would all say, “You should be a teacher.”

What do you do outside of school for fun? Why?

Read, go on vacation as much as I can, and play with my daughter.

When people get to know you, what are they most surprised to learn about you?

That I’m an artistic, I like to write and sometimes I’m good at painting.

What is your hidden talent?

I play guitar.

What is something you know a weird amount about that isn’t related to something you teach?

Anything related to the James Bond books and movies.

Tell us the story about what you are most proud of yourself for.

I just try to be the best father that I can be for my daughter and I hope to look back and make that my proudest thing.

Who is someone you are thankful for and why?

My grandfather, for setting the best example. For his values, his strength, and the way he held his family together.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I received some advice in 2011 that has stayed with me, and I would definitely tell my younger self this same advice: focus on what you can control, not what you cannot.

What do you hope to be remembered for?

I want my students to remember me as their most influential English teacher.

What’s on your bucket list?

I want to trace my family origins in England/Ireland

Favorites

Food: Banana Pudding

Restaurant: Tapped

Music: Blink-182

TV Show: “Battlestar Galactica”

Movie: ” The Empire Strikes Back”

Book: “Sphere” by Michael Crichton

Teacher: Mrs. McKay, 3rd grade teacher

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About the Contributors

Michelle Santoyo, Photography Editor

Jayden Solis, Sports Editor (Girls)

Jayden Solis is a photographer at Caney Creek High School, he takes photos of sports, clubs, orgs., and things that happen at the school. This is his first year being apart of staff, and he used to play for the school soccer team his freshman year, and he is in his third year in Culinary arts. He lives in Cut and Shoot with his mom and stepdad. He enjoys listening to music, fashion, video games, and soccer.

Jorge Ventura, Sports Editor (Co-Ed)

Jorge Ventura is photographer at Caney Creek, he takes photos of sports, clubs & organizations and in school events. This is his first year being apart of staff, previously he was on Caney Creek basketball team as a freshman. He is also apart of AV video and production class.

Karson Ward, Photojournalist

Karson Ward is a photographer in the Student Media program. This is her first year on staff, she's also involved in basketball class, and manager for volleyball.