By Ember McElrath 

Woodward High School teacher and coach Derrick Luetjen is now their most recent recipient of the teacher spotlight.

“I was definitely honored to find out, especially in a school that has the most amazing and dedicated teachers; they all deserve to be recognized before I do,” said Derrick. “From top to bottom, this district is full of high-character people that place the students first and I am proud to be a Boomer!”

Derrick came into teaching after college and working in the medical field for two years. He realized he just needed to be around football again. He got the opportunity to help coach where he went to college.

“After one season with TU football on the coaching side, my dad accepted the football job at Woodward High School,” said Derrick. “He asked me if I wanted to come coach with him, and I could not pass up the opportunity to coach alongside him and teach alongside my mom.”

Now Derrick is in his second year teaching Physical Science to ninth graders and Anatomy and Physiology to juniors and seniors. 

“My favorite thing about teaching is being able to be here for my students and players if they need it,” said Derrick. “I had so many amazing people in my life disguised as teachers and coaches, and I learned something from each of them that I can pass on.”

Being a teacher and a coach comes with its challenges, but with a great support system you can do just about anything. 

“I am inspired by my parents, my two older brothers, and my beautiful wife and son on a daily basis,” Derrick said. “I have the absolute best support system—one that I do not deserve at all.”

During his summers and free time Derrick can be caught in the weight room and on the field helping his athletes with workouts. He also enjoys trying to fit in a round of golf and some fishing whenever possible.