Mr. Holmes

Welcome to Class!

I’m Mr. Holmes, and I teach geography with a simple goal: to make the world feel a little more familiar—and a lot more interesting. Around here, we blend old-school methods (bring that notebook) with new-school tech (yes, we use AI). I believe in high standards, but I also believe school should be a space where it’s okay to explore, mess up, and figure things out without fear.

I was born in Brooklyn, raised in Houston, and I’ve always been curious about how people and places shape one another. I graduated from Dulles High School in Sugar Land, then earned a double major in political science and international studies from Stephen F. Austin State University. The plan was never “become a teacher,” but here we are—and I wouldn’t trade it.

Outside the classroom, I study traditional Chinese martial arts because it keeps me centered and sounds cooler than “gym membership.” I’m also into music—spinning vinyl, queuing up playlists, or making beats in my home studio. I’ve been producing electronic music for over a decade. It’s one of those spaces where I can get lost in the work and actually enjoy the process.

You’ll also meet SohanaGPT, the AI assistant we use in class. Quick backstory: the name “Sohana” is made up of the names of my three daughters—Sophia, Sharon, and Sylvia—who I love deeply. I also have a son, Charlton Jr., who completes the squad. They remind me daily why this work matters.

In this class, we don’t just memorize maps—we connect the dots. Geography is about stories, movement, culture, conflict, and connection. And if we do it right, you’ll leave here not just with content knowledge, but with perspective.o each other.