Heroes in Education: Steve McHenry

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Heroes in Education: Steve McHenry

Sat, 03/06/2021 - 13:23
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Steve McHenry teaches PE at Garfield Elementary. He grew up in Coweta, Oklahoma and went to Oklahoma University. Ponca City is the only place that McHenry has worked and has been here teaching elementary PE and coaching football and track for 24 years.

McHenry grew up in a house of educators, leaving little doubt he’d be one as well.

“My dad was a teacher/coach for over 40 years, my mom always worked for the schools and three out of four siblings are educators,” said McHenry.

Originally, McHenry’s plan was to be an athletic trainer so that he could stay involved with athletics.

“My dad told me to get a teaching certificate in case I changed my mind,” said McHenry. “Growing up our lives revolved around semesters, football season, basketball season, track season and weight room so it just makes sense we made a career out of it.”

McHenry’s favorite aspect of teaching is the relationships developed with students, teachers, players and coaches.

“Plus it’s not boring,” said McHenry. “You have to be flexible and willing to change at any given moment. You end up doing things you said you would never do and trashing ideas/plans you thought were amazing. Students make you feel/look old but keep you young at heart.”

McHenry says it’s hard to pin down his teaching style as his thinking and attitude have changed.

“I don’t care about the educator cliche’s and quotes. Right now, I say be yourself, teach your strengths so you can give your best to others,” said McHenry. “Lose the ego, because at some point you’re going to ditch what you think is great. Control what’s in your control and be willing to let things roll off your back.”

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Heroes in Education: Steve McHenry