Band director Brian Coates named a finalist for Newton County Teacher of the Year

Brian Coates, band director at Al Colby High School, said he is honored to be a finalist for Newton County Teacher of the Year and described teaching and student success as the most rewarding parts of his career.

Coates, who told the meeting he was inspired to become a teacher by his high school band director, Damien Crutcher, said the program Crutcher built “traveled across the country,” and that he wanted to give his own students similar experiences. “What inspired me to become a teacher was my high school band director, Mr. Damien Crutcher,” Coates said.

“The most rewarding part of my teaching career has been seeing from my students who have graduated, seeing them be become successful and become good people,” Coates said. “And achieving success either in the workforce or in college through scholarships, that's the most rewarding part.” He said he stays motivated by treating every day as “an opportunity to improve myself” and by encouraging students to strive for their best.

Coates said he was "amazed" to be among the top three finalists for Newton County's Teacher of the Year and called the recognition “a very rewarding experience.” He also described the school as “very special to me” and praised its diversity as a strength that allows students to be themselves.

Remarks in the transcript alternately refer to the school as “Al Colby High School” and as “Alcove.” The speaker identified himself in the record as Brian Coates and gave his title as band director. The transcript did not specify the awarding body’s poster or ceremony date.

Coates’ comments focused on his path into teaching, pride in former students’ successes, daily goals of self-improvement, and the honor of being a district-level award finalist. No formal board action, vote, or policy change was recorded in the provided transcript excerpt.