The squeak of sneakers fills the gym as green and white jerseys race down the court. The coach stands on the sidelines, calm and focused, calling out a new play. A few hours earlier, she was two floors up, drawing equations on the whiteboard. In both places, Samantha Beck thrives.
Finding her passion
Beck was raised in Butler, NJ, and attended the College of New Jersey. Yet, finding her career path did not come so clearly. “I used to hate math. I hated it throughout middle school. Then, it started to click in high school,” said Beck.
She started teaching math at KHS this year, but is already benefiting students across grade levels. “She describes concepts so much better than other math teachers. She really helps everyone in the class,” said freshman Jenna Odatalla.
Unlike her career in math, Beck’s interest in basketball did not come out of the blue. “I played basketball my whole life. I played multiple sports, but always loved basketball,” said Beck.
Beck’s lifelong love for the game is evident not only in her experiences but in the way she treats her players on the court. “She always looks for the best in her players, even when we make a mistake,” said freshman Maeve Denison.
Coaching and Teaching Philosophies
Beck aims to teach players and students lessons that extend beyond the classroom or the court. “I always want to push students and players to be better,” said Beck. “Seeing students succeed is amazing.”
In math class, Beck uses a variety of skills to connect with students, whether it be from providing extra help to discussing a problem in class. Beck is always there to help students in need. “I like it when students are confused, so I can figure out how to help them,” Beck said. “Everyone learns differently, so I’m always trying to come up with new creative ways to teach.”
Odatalla said, “ I always hated math class. Mrs. Beck helped me to see it more positively while also pushing everyone to do their best.”
On the court, Beck applies these same values to push players outside their comfort zones, helping them become more aggressive and assertive while keeping the game enjoyable. “She pushes the team a lot, but also encourages us so we can do our best,” said Denison.
Maneuvering Tight Schedules
Balancing her roles as a math teacher and a basketball coach is no easy task, and Beck’s schedule is often packed from morning to evening. She spends her mornings planning lessons, grading papers, and helping students. After school, basketball practices and games can last from two to three hours each night.
“Time is the hardest thing to get; you can never have enough of it,” said Beck. “Still, it helps to know that everyone wants to be there, especially the basketball team.”
Despite the long hours and demanding days, Beck remains dedicated and focused. “It is definitely challenging to handle both responsibilities, but I am always able to make it work,” said Beck.
Impact on Students
In the short time Beck has been at KHS, the impact she has made on students has been profound. Her strong personality and high expectations push students to do their best, and her support helps them overcome challenges.
Her ability to build strong relationships and motivate her students makes a lasting difference in their lives. Whether it’s a student struggling with math or a player facing a tough game, Beck’s guidance and belief in students and players’ potential help to push them through obstacles and succeed.
Her positive influence encourages students to always stay determined and strive for greatness. Denison said, “I was very nervous going into the first basketball game of the season. Mrs. Beck helped support our team and pushed us to be better.”
