October 6 is National Coaches Day and today, IDEA Public Schools proudly recognizes all our coaches and individuals who work within our athletic departments. Their work, on and off the field, creates an impact that will last a lifetime for our scholars. Let’s hear from one of our fantastic coaches from our San Antonio region, Mark Frank from IDEA Hidden Meadow, about his story on joining IDEA Public Schools.
Mark’s Journey
Like many recent college graduates, Mark wasn’t too sure about his career path. He found his calling during his role as a high school wrestling coach. This led him to return to school and get his Master’s in Education. After his studies, he decided to make the move across the country from Philidelphia, Pennsylvania to San Antonio, Texas where he took the open P.E. teaching position at IDEA South Flores. Coach Frank says, “It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
Joining the Team and Family
When he got to IDEA, he was overwhelmed with how much he loved the job. A big part of that happiness came from the strong sense of Team and Family. He appreciated feeling supported and connected to the people on campus.
“Everyone was on the same page, working towards a common goal,” Coach Frank shared.
Accessibility and Acceptance in Physical Education
Coach Frank always encourages his students to be active participants in his class. He motivates those with less athletic experience to give it their best shot and try their hardest. When it comes to his teaching style, this is what he had to say.
“Just because one student can do 20 pushups and the other can only do five, I still encourage them to try six the next week,” Coach Frank explained. “I try to help them set themselves up for success by telling them to focus on their abilities and not compare it to what other kids can do.”
During his time at South Flores, Coach Frank had an academy student who suffered from muscular dystrophy. Throughout the school year, coach Frank made the adjustments needed to ensure she could participate in the class just like everyone else.
“She made it easy for me because she was always so excited and eager to do the activities”, he explained.
At the end of the school year, he received praise from the scholar’s parents, for how his actions lifted her spirits and encouraged her to continue trying sports. He calls this “one of his proudest moments at IDEA.”
What Our Coaches Bring to IDEA Public Schools
Last year in the 2023-24 school year, Coach Mark Frank was awarded the “We Bring Joy” core value award for IDEA Hidden Meadows. This was an exciting recognition for him, as this is what he strives to do every day for his scholars.
While at IDEA, Coach Frank has created many opportunities for his scholars. He created the “Kick or Treat” kickball game for his 3rd-5th grade scholars which happens on the Saturday before Halloween.
He’s created basketball leagues, soccer tournaments, and other events outside of school hours to get students active and involved. Not to mention, he is also a San Antonio Course Leader for Academy P.E.
As he is coming up on 7 years with IDEA Public Schools, Coach Frank hopes to continue to “Bring Joy” to his campus and scholars. He believes that as a P.E. teacher, “we have the opportunity to be the best part of a kid’s day.”
Bring the joy to our scholars and become part of our Team and Family today. Apply now on our careers website.
