This fall, as Kent School embarks on a new academic year, the English Department warmly welcomes Mr. Hassan Eltelbany who brings new energy and a passion for learning from faraway Portland, Oregon. After earning his master’s degree in teaching from Lewis & Clark College and teaching at Lincoln High School, Mr. Eltelbany made the decision to cross the country and join Kent, inspired by the school’s vibrant community spirit and the welcoming atmosphere that aligns with his own professional values and goals.

“I was really excited to get to know my students, and I’ve really enjoyed getting back to the classroom. I felt like that was my way to really connect with all the students that were on campus, just because I know a lot of them don’t know me yet,” said Mr. Eltelbany. He was drawn to teach at Kent by the new English elective system. “One of the reasons that I came was that the English department here offers a lot of electives. I was impressed with the department for doing that, and I thought that I wanted to be a part of that.” This year, he is teaching several sections of English 2 and Writing Seminar. Looking ahead, he is especially excited to teach two electives –  The Moral Life in the winter and Film Analysis in the spring. 

With a personal passion for connecting through learning, his enthusiasm goes well beyond the classroom. For Mr. Eltelbany, community is what he values the most. “I decided to come to Kent because, first of all, the students were really incredible. The students that I met were very sweet, and I could tell that they really got along with one another and treated one another respectfully. The faculty was very welcoming and was very transparent with me about what their missions were.” For the first week when he was here, his favorite memory has to be meeting his students in his classes. 

Outside the classroom, Mr. Eltelbany brings a balance to his life. “I like to lift weights. I like to write. I enjoy trying to find the best pizza in the world.” (On the first day he was here, he went to Swyft.)

The Kent community is thrilled to welcome Mr. Eltelbany and looks forward to the many ways he will enrich the campus life this year.