Christine Helton

Educator/Teacher

Mrs. Chris Helton is a psychology teacher at John F. Kennedy High School in La Palma, CA, part of the Anaheim Union High School District. An educator for over 20 years, she teaches in an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and is dedicated to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and global-mindedness in her students. Mrs. Helton strives to support every learner by building strong relationships, encouraging compassion, and modeling grit—creating a classroom environment where students feel valued, challenged, and inspired to grow.

My passion as a psychology teacher comes from helping students understand themselves, others, and the world through the lens of human behavior. I love watching students make connections between psychological concepts and their own lives, discovering insights that empower them to grow academically, emotionally, and personally. Every day, I strive to create a classroom where curiosity is encouraged, empathy is practiced, and learning feels meaningful and transformative.

A teacher shows up every day because they believe that every student has the potential to grow, achieve, and become something extraordinary. They are driven by the relationships they build, the moments of curiosity they spark, and the opportunity to help students discover their strengths. At the heart of it all is a commitment to sharing this idea—one day, one lesson, and one student at a time.

As a teacher, I incorporate TED Talks because they represent ideas worth spreading—powerful stories, fresh perspectives, and real-world insights that make psychology come alive. They model curiosity, courage, and the ability to communicate complex concepts in meaningful ways. Over time, TED Talks have become more than just a teaching tool; they’ve become part of my story as an educator who believes in inspiring students to think critically, empathize deeply, and see the world through a broader lens.