Jonathan Rodriguez, a dedicated educator at Durant High School, exemplifies the profound impact teachers can have on their students. Starting his 10th year at Durant, Jonathan teaches anatomy and physiology, physical science, and alsoserves as the head tennis coach. His passion for teaching stems from the significant influence his own teachers had on him. “I had teachers who had a profound impact on my life, and I want to have the same impact on others,” he explained.
Before joining Durant High School, Jonathan taught at Clinton High School in Clinton, OK, for a year and a half. His experience there helped shape his teaching philosophy and approach. Reflecting on his time as a student, he highlights two particularly influential teachers. “Mrs. Alexander, she taught high school math, and I had her for calculus. I remember her always having a kind tone even when we didn’t quite understand something and being super patient. The other was Mr. Crow, my high school physics teacher. He refused to let anyone not achieve their highest potential.”
Jonathan’s favorite aspect of teaching is the relationships he builds with his students. “Early on in my career, I realized that a lot of the students I have don’t have anyone. If they know that they can come to my classroom and know that it is a safe place, then the opportunity for them to learn would be at its best,” he shares. This understanding drives his approach to education, emphasizing care and compassion. “Care for the students first. If the student enters the room and doesn’t think you care at all about them, then they will shut you down,” he advised. “If they know that you care about them, then they are more likely to listen to you and learn from you.”
Outside the classroom, Jonathan enjoys spending time with his family, playing tennis and fishing with his kids. His wife, Lauren, and their two children, Ellie and Ben, are central to his life. These personal pursuits not only provide balance but also reinforce the values of dedication and perseverance that he imparts to his students.
Jonathan Rodriguez’s journey as an educator is a testament to the lasting influence teachers can have on their students.
