Meet an AZ Compass Prep Teacher: Tevin Rutherford

As we prepare for the new school year, we want to introduce you to some members of the AZ Compass Prep team. Today: meet Tevin Rutherford.

Last year, Tevin was our 9-12th History teacher. This year, he’s putting his talent and love of sports to work as our new Physical Education Teacher and Varsity Football Coach.

Read on to learn about Tevin — his background, what he enjoys most about being a teacher and coach, and how he inspires his students and athletes.

Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

I grew up in Kansas, went to a big high school, and loved being involved in sports. I’ve played football ever since I was old enough to put on a helmet and played in college at Coffeyville Community College and later at Emporia State University. One of my coaches, Coach Perry, inspired me to become a teacher. Teaching and coaching has always been something that I have envisioned for myself.

What made you choose AZCP?

As a teacher, I love the small class sizes at AZCP and how personal the school is. I feel that it makes a difference knowing the names and faces of every student in our school. I find that the smaller environment also helps foster interdisciplinary collaboration between the teachers. AZCP truly feels like a small family.

As a teacher, I love the small class sizes at AZCP and how personal the school is… AZCP truly feels like a small family.

What do you find most rewarding about being a teacher/coach?

The most rewarding part of teaching or coaching is seeing my students grow as individuals. As a coach I often get to see them from the first day of their freshman year of high school to their graduation day. And seeing them grow educationally, athletically, and socially is why I do what I do.

Who or what inspired you to become a teacher/coach?

First and foremost would certainly be my parents. My dad has always been a coach and i grew up in and out of locker rooms. Both of my parents have always been supportive of my athletic ventures (including driving hours to watch me play in the cold rain). They have also always pushed me to strive academically. Another coaching influence would be my high school coach, Coach Perry. He would always go the extra mile for any guy on our team who needed it.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I like anything that has to do with sports. If I’m not watching sports I like to read about them! I also enjoy working with my hands and fixing things. My wife and I have refinished multiple pieces of furniture around our house over the past few years.

What are you most excited for this upcoming year?

Our student athletes have made a lot of personal and team gains since the end of our last season and I look forward to seeing that in action.

How do you inspire students/athletes?

The most important part is building a positive relationship with all of my students built on trust and mutual respect. My goal is always to inspire my students to be the best version of themselves.

We’re excited to have Tevin on the AZ Compass Prep team and we’re looking forward to a great school year! If you’d like to support Dragon Football, please donate to the AZCP Football team’s fundraiser. Your support will help provide the equipment Tevin and his team need to build a competitive high school football program.

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