Angela Coppola

My mother was a teacher for 33 years; I never felt remotely compelled to follow in her footsteps until I worked for Prep for Prep – a non-profit for low-income, high-achieving students of color in New York City. In 2007 I taught a weekend leadership class on ethical and effective leadership. By lunch the first day I was hooked on teaching. Since then I have taught in Oakland, Hayward and this will be my 5th year at Berkeley High, where I began my California teaching career as a student teacher in 2009.

In my spare time I enjoy biking, reading, dancing and offerings from the “golden age of TV” – particularly those that offer an alluring look at the past such as Deadwood, Boardwalk Empire and Mad Men. I’m also an obsessive fan of Game of Thrones and its exploration of the question, “Is true moral leadership possible in politics?”

I am originally from New York State; I moved to New York City on September 7, 2001 and having my life changed by the events of that week set me on the path to teaching history. I go back to NYC every summer and drag my friends to see historical markers, like the three posted for the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire.

I love working with young people and getting them engaged in history. It is my goal for them to feel history unfurling around them and to become deeply engaged in its making.

  • AC at a glance

    Choose from the widest possible list of electives, Advanced Placement classes, and courses of study:
    Challenge yourself academically and prepare for success in a 4-year college or university. AC offers academic support for all students.

    Explore your interests and develop your strengths: Decide which subjects to study in depth. AC offers a rigorous program while providing you the most flexibility in course selection.

    Thrive in a diverse yet personalized learning community: Join a cohort of students in the 9th and 10th grade humanities classes and become part of a supportive community. Find friends who share your interests and learn from classmates with wide-ranging world views.