As the 2024 school year rolls around, Apex High School is welcoming so many new people into our Cougar family, especially our new teachers. One in particular, Mrs. Sopko, who joined us as a new PE teacher and JV women’s lacrosse coach. To get to know her a little bit more, I asked her a few questions to put into this article.

Q: So just to start off, you can introduce yourself, talk a little bit about anything you would like to put in an article about yourself.

A: Okay, so, I’m Mrs. Sopko. I’m part of the healthful living department; I’m also the JV girls Lacrosse coach. I came over here from Panther Creek, and I’ve been in Wake County for five years, and I’ve been teaching for seven. 

Q: So, where did you go to school and what degree did you graduate with?

A: I’m originally from Long Island. I grew up on Long Island, went to Sachem High School, and I got my undergrad degree in PE, so, K12, and then got my masters degree in athletic administration. 

Q: Okay! So, why did you decide to become a teacher?

A: I always wanted to be a teacher. Even as a kid, I started coaching at a young age, at fourteen, for cheerleading. I grew up as a cheerleader and lacrosse player since I was, you know, nine. It was just something that I wanted but never knew exactly where I wanted to be, “do I wanna be history, English?”, but PE, you know, the sports background, I stuck with that.

Q: Alright! Why did you decide to switch to Apex from Panther Creek?

A: I like the community involvement here. It’s just a lot different; it seems like the area is a lot closer together. Also a lot closer to where I live too, so, it makes it easier with a three-year-old. Closer to his day care and everything. But besides that, just all the exciting things that everyone always speaks about Apex.

Q: Yeah, for sure. Apex is great. Leading into my next question, is there anything that you dislike about Apex so far?

A: No, not at all.

Q: Love to hear it! So, other than teaching, what are a few of your other hobbies that you have?

A: I travel a lot; we go back home to New  York often, and I coach travel lacrosse. I’m a huge Georgia Bulldogs fan, so I love the football on Saturdays. Just spending time with my family. My husband’s a teacher at Green Level, so any time we can go against them, and beat the Gators is a good thing!

Q: What are some of your pet peeves as a teacher?

A: Being late to class, not getting involved in class, or even clubs and activities. I feel like everyone has to find their hobby somewhere, you know, their little home.

Q: What is some advice you have for your students?

A: Have fun. High school is four years. You know, many of us want to go back if we could, so just enjoy every moment of it.

Q: What would you be doing if you weren’t a teacher?

A: Oh gosh, If I wasn’t a teacher… If I wasn’t a teacher, I would probably go into Real Estate!

Q: And what has been your most memorable moment as a teacher?

A: Just making connections with those students, especially your upperclassmen. Watching them get to graduate, and then them running back and wanting to take a picture with you or something like that, so obviously you made an impact on their lives.

Q: Well, is there anything else that you would like to share?

A: No, I don’t think so.

I really enjoyed getting to know Mrs. Sopko, and I think she is an amazing addition to our Apex High School family. Now that you know a little more about her, make sure to stop by and welcome her!