Ben Long is a new teacher at Salida High School, known for his energetic and dedicated approach to teaching English. He brings a unique blend of enthusiasm for both technology and the outdoors, reflecting his deep connection to the natural environment of Colorado, where he has spent most of his life. Growing up in Fort Collins, Long’s love for nature was fostered early, and today, when he’s not in the classroom inspiring students, you can often find him hiking the scenic trails around the state. His passion for the outdoors translates directly into his teaching style, where he frequently shares stories of his hiking adventures.

In the classroom, Long mirrors the enthusiasm he feels for the outdoors. He believes that education should be an adventure, much like the trails he loves to explore. His lessons are designed to push students to venture beyond their comfort zones, encouraging them to ask questions, engage in lively debates, and develop a passion for learning that will stay with them throughout their lives. Long sees his role as not only teaching English but also helping students find their own paths, much like finding a trail in the wilderness.

While his love for outdoor adventure feeds his soul, Long’s interests extend into the digital realm as well. A modern educator in every sense, he is an avid streamer who spends his free time engaging with video games, podcasts, and talk shows. His streaming sessions, which feature everything from thoughtful discussions on education to fun gaming experiences, reflect the same energy and curiosity he brings to the classroom. For Long, digital media is another way to connect with students and the world around him. He sees it as a platform to explore new ideas and build communities, often stating, “This is what I do most in my free time,” as he encourages his students to embrace technology not only for entertainment but as a powerful tool for learning and self-expression.

Long’s passion for teaching extends beyond the traditional classroom experience. Growing up, one of his favorite activities was participating in Future Farmers of America. He fondly recalls his time in the program, speaking often of the sense of teamwork and leadership it instilled in him. Now, as a teacher, Long brings many of the same values he learned in FFA into his classroom. His teaching philosophy emphasizes leadership, collaboration, and personal responsibility, with a strong focus on teamwork. He believes that these skills are just as important as academic success, and he uses this philosophy to build camaraderie between his students. In his classroom, students are encouraged to work together to solve problems, support one another, and grow both academically and personally.

In addition to his regular teaching duties, Long is also committed to the emotional and social well-being of his students. Recognizing the importance of mental health in education, he introduced a “Mindful Monday” class to help students better understand and manage their emotional well-being. Through this program, Long provides his students with tools to cope with stress, improve focus, and build resilience skills that are vital both in and out of the classroom. He emphasizes that learning is not just about intellectual development but also about emotional growth, and his students often credit him with helping them build a more balanced approach to their education.

With his unique combination of passions for the outdoors, digital media, teamwork, and emotional well-being, Long is more than just a teacher; he is a mentor who seeks to inspire his students to live fully and authentically. Whether they are discussing literature in the classroom, tackling a leadership challenge in a group project, or tuning into his latest stream, his students know that they can count on Long to guide them with enthusiasm, empathy, and a deep commitment to their success.