Amanda Reynolds, a veteran educator with 15 years of experience at Durant High School, has dedicated herself to making a positive impact both in the classroom and on the athletic field. 

“I got into education to be a coach,” Amanda noted, tracing her initial motivation back to a childhood affinity for playing school in her dad’s classroom. Now, as the head girls’ cross-country coach and assistant boys’ coach for mid and long-distance track events, she goes beyond traditional teaching, instilling values of discipline, teamwork and resilience in her athletes.

Reflecting on her own student days, Amanda acknowledges the influential teachers who shaped her perspective. “Too many to name,” she said, citing her dad, Keith Meek, along with Janie Jones, Ron Wallace and Jonell Whitehead, as significant figures at the high school level. Their impact left a lasting mark on her approach to education.

Amanda finds immense joy in the transformative aspect of teaching, aiming not only to convey academic knowledge but also to impart valuable life skills. “Making a difference in a kid’s life” is what she enjoys most, emphasizing the importance of guiding students toward personal growth that extends far beyond textbooks and exams.

Beyond the academic realm, Amanda is an avid outdoor enthusiast. “Being with family and anything outdoors” is her go-to when not teaching. Whether riding horses, hunting, fishing or playing with their dogs, she appreciates the balance that nature brings to her life.

For Amanda, the true measure of success in education goes beyond wins and losses. “It’s not about the wins and losses for me,” she emphasized. Instead, her focus lies in being a Christian role model, providing guidance that extends beyond the classroom to help young individuals navigate their personal and spiritual journeys. As she continues to contribute to the Durant High School community, Amanda Reynolds remains committed to shaping well-rounded individuals who are prepared for life’s challenges.