WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. — Cypress Creek High School Principal Carin Hetzler-Nettles describes this week’s A+ Teacher as an educator “incredibly gifted in engaging our students.”

A retired Navy veteran, Garrett Gibson makes learning meaningful and fun for his students.

Gibson’s students love coming to his class: for the excitement, energy and enthusiasm. Gibson teaches AP Psychology and Economics.


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"I collaborate with a bunch of AP Psychology teachers and Economics teachers on social media, and you're just coming up with these good ideas to use in the classrooms,” Gibson said. “You get the kids out of their seats.  I remember my AP Pyscohology kids did a scavenger hunt and went around looking for different concepts in our sensation and perception unit."

From a science project building neurons with edible candy pieces to working on an escape room for another assignment, Gibson keeps his students engaged with innovation, creativity and real-world learning.

"We're actually finishing up our personal finance unit, so the kids (have) been going through what does it mean to file taxes,” Gibson said. “What comes out of my paycheck? …to learn how to buy a car, looking at types of insurance.”

Gibson said he has fun with his students and is able to connect with them one-on-one to help them learn.

"He's all in, all the time, and that's what makes him incredible is that attitude,” said Hetzler-Nettles. “He definitely exudes our mission which is to have a growth mindset. He owns his education, works as a community and absolutely leads responsibly."

Gibson, who also coaches the Cypress Creek girl’s soccer team, came to the classroom after 10 years in the US Navy.

“I enjoy every day of it,” he said. “I do it for the kids. It's an incredible feeling that you get."