Haggard Middle School 2026

Casey Ray

Haggard Middle School - Middle School PE Teacher, Grades 6-7
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Teaching Philosophy

Teaching, for me, has never been simply about delivering content. It is about belonging, resilience, and the quiet, daily act of believing in young people—both in the classroom and beyond it. As both a teacher and a coach, I see my role as guiding students academically, emotionally, and personally, helping them discover who they are and who they can become. After sixteen years at Carpenter Middle School and one and a half years at Haggard Middle School, my philosophy has been shaped not only by instructional practice but by loss, leadership, and the enduring strength of community.

The closure of Carpenter Middle School marked the end of an era. Letting go of a place where I had invested so much of myself was both painful and disorienting. Yet, like any rebuilding season, it required reflection, adaptability, and resolve. Starting over reaffirmed why I remain passionate about education and coaching. The impact of a teacher or coach is not defined by a building, but by the lessons that endure—discipline, resilience, integrity, and belief in oneself.

Carpenter Middle School was more than my workplace; it was my professional home. For over sixteen years, I taught students during the school day and coached them before and after the bell. Whether in a classroom, on a field, or on a court, I learned that growth begins with relationships. Students perform at their best when they feel supported, challenged, and valued. As a teacher and coach, I emphasize preparation, accountability, and effort, while fostering an environment where mistakes are viewed as opportunities to learn rather than failures to fear.

That philosophy was tested profoundly when I moved to Haggard and I lost one of my athletes in a tragic accident. There is no playbook for grief. In that moment, teaching and coaching became one and the same—showing up, listening, and helping students navigate emotions they were not prepared to face. I learned that leadership is not always about direction; sometimes it is about presence. Helping students process loss reinforced my belief that emotional safety and trust are foundational to both learning and teamwork.

This school year, just before break, our community suffered another devastating loss when our school counselor passed away from cancer. She was a vital support for students and staff alike, and her absence is deeply felt. She was the glue that was keeping the girls together after they had suffered an unthinkable tragedy and now they are experiencing another one. Watching them rally together reminded me that strong teams—whether academic or athletic—depend on collaboration, empathy, and shared responsibility. As a coach, I strive to model these values, teaching students the importance of lifting one another up, persevering through adversity, and honoring the roles we all play in a collective effort.

Today, my philosophy is grounded in resilience, leadership, and growth. I believe classrooms and teams should be inclusive spaces where students are challenged to work hard, support one another, and take pride in improvement. Clear expectations, consistent feedback, and positive relationships are essential, but so is compassion. Students bring their whole selves with them, and it is my responsibility to meet them where they are while helping them move forward.

Despite loss and change, my love for teaching and coaching has only grown stronger. Both roles allow me to mentor students during pivotal years, teaching them not only academic content or athletic skills, but life lessons that extend far beyond school. I begin again—committed, grateful, and grounded—because this work matters. Helping students grow, persevere, and believe in themselves remains both my purpose and my privilege.

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Principal's Recommendation

Plano ISD Teacher of the Year Selection Committee:

It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Coach Casey Ray for Plano ISD Teacher of the Year. Coach Ray is this year's Haggard Middle School Teacher of the Year, and her impact on our campus, students, and staff is exceptional.

Coach Ray consistently goes above and beyond the expectations of her role. She is always quick to volunteer to cover classes during her conference period when needed and willingly helps organize and support school events outside of the athletic department. Her commitment to the entire school community is evident in everything she does.

As our Girls Athletic Coordinator and 8th grade coach for basketball, track, soccer, and cross country, Coach Ray is a true leader. She serves as a mentor to our coaching staff, working closely with them to provide guidance, support, and strategies for growth, especially during challenging situations. Her leadership has been instrumental in strengthening our athletic program and fostering a collaborative, positive coaching culture.

In just a few short years, Coach Ray has helped transform the athletic environment at Haggard Middle School into a program that truly prioritizes students. She emphasizes accountability, academics, preparation for the next level, and—most importantly—building strong, meaningful relationships. Her positive attitude and genuine care for students are evident daily.

When speaking with students about who they trust most on campus, Coach Ray's name is frequently mentioned as the number one teacher they would go to when facing a concern or needing support. Regardless of an athlete's talent level, Coach Ray consistently brings out the best in every student and ensures they are prepared both athletically and personally for future success.

Haggard Middle School is incredibly fortunate to have Coach Ray. She goes the extra mile to ensure all students feel supported, valued, and challenged to be their best. I wholeheartedly recommend Coach Casey Ray for Plano ISD Teacher of the Year. She is an outstanding educator, leader, and role model who truly makes a difference in the lives of students.

Sincerely,

Travis Ragsdale
Principal
Haggard Middle School