At Woodward High School, few figures embody dedication and leadership quite like Nehemiah Lewis. Balancing multiple roles as a science teacher, football coach, and track coach, Lewis has made it his mission to inspire and guide students both academically and personally.
Lewis currently teaches 10th grade biology, though his teaching experience also includes anatomy and physiology. His passion for science connects seamlessly with his athletic background. He earned his B.S. in kinesiology and M.Ed. in adult education and sports administration from Northwestern Oklahoma State University. That blend of scientific understanding and coaching expertise allows him to approach education holistically, showing students how discipline, curiosity, and teamwork intersect in both sports and life.
Outside the classroom and off the field, Lewis enjoys cooking, playing video games, and now photography since football season is coming to a close. These hobbies offer him balance and creativity, but his true motivation comes from the mentors who shaped him.
“The people that inspire me the most are some of the teachers and professors I’ve had during my academic career and my high school coaches. I’ve learned a lot of life lessons from these people, and now I want to give back to the younger generation and make an impact in their lives,” Lewis shared.
For Lewis, teaching goes far beyond textbooks and athletic drills. His proudest moments come when former students visit to share how much they’ve grown since his class.
“Some of the best memories I’ve had as a teacher are when students I’ve taught in the past are about to graduate and they come visit me and tell me how they learned so much in my class. Sometimes it’s the content itself, and other times it’s about being respectful and responsible,” Lewis added.
Through his passion, patience, and purpose, Lewis continues to prove that the lessons students learn from him both on the field and in the lab will last a lifetime.
