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Durant’s Jimmie Wyrick – Teacher Spotlight – Presented by Simmons Bank

Jimmie Wyrick has been shaping young minds and inspiring student-athletes for 22 years, and for the past two years, he’s brought his passion and enthusiasm to Durant High School. Jimmie teaches Physical Science and is deeply invested in the Durant Lions community, a move he and his wife, LeaAnn Wyrick—also a teacher at the high school—made with their two sons, Easton and Logan, after much prayer. “Two years ago, we decided to move our family to Durant to become a part of the Lion family,” Jimmie says, reflecting on the decision that has enriched both his personal and professional life.

Jimmie’s path to teaching and coaching began early. “I have known that I wanted to be a coach since the 7th grade,” he shares. “I loved helping my teammates figure out our football plays in the huddle.” A proud graduate of Hugo High School’s class of 1999, Jimmie was shaped by the influences of exceptional educators and coaches, including Kelly Self, Clegg McAdams, Darnell Shanklin, Brian Copeland, and Freeland Nash.

Initially drawn to the classroom because teaching was a requirement for coaching, Jimmie quickly discovered his passion for education. “Teaching in the classroom is just like coaching on the field,” he explains. “I love helping young adults figure out that they are capable of so much more in the classroom and on the field.”

Jimmie credits much of his perspective to a piece of advice from Dr. Mary Hitchcock, a professor at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. “She told me, ‘Jimmie, you have a bright and joyful personality that is contagious. Do not let the opinions of others and the fear of failure steal the joy of teaching and coaching. Let your love and joy shine through your body of work.’”

This advice has stayed with Jimmie, serving as a cornerstone of his teaching and coaching philosophy. His message to his players is simple but impactful: “FOCUS on the little things, the details, because that is the only way to make big things happen.”

Outside of teaching, Jimmie enjoys spending time with his family, being outdoors, and woodworking—pursuits that echo his commitment to building something meaningful, both in life and in the classroom.

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