Mike Reynolds is Eagle Tire Pros teacher of the week

By Charlotte Underwood

JELLICO, TN (WLAF)- We’ve all had that teacher who inspired us or helped in some way. That’s why WLAF and Eagle Tire Pros salute one of our hard working educators with a weekly feature. Teachers make a difference in their students lives each and every day. For many students, having a teacher who cares and goes that extra mile can be the difference in a successful education and graduation.

This week’s featured teacher is Coach Mike Reynolds. He currently serves as the Graduation Assistant Program (GAP) teacher and also teaches personal finance at Jellico High School. Reynolds is also the basketball coach. Reynolds has been an educator for 18 years.

Reynolds is originally from the Habersham community. He attended Campbell County High School and then attended Lincoln Memorial University & Western Governors University.

According to Reynolds, he “got into teaching because he had a passion for coaching and teaching.”

He said he loves his job, loves coaching and spending time with the kids.

As a Graduation Assistance Program Teacher, Reynolds helps upperclassmen students that are behind on credits so they can complete their degree and graduate. He said though the job can sometimes be frustrating, it is an incredibly rewarding experience when the students finish the program and graduate.

“My favorite part of the job is the relationships that are built with the students,” Reynolds said.

Some of Reynolds Coaching highlights include:

Basketball:

6 District Championships

1 Region Championship 

1 State Tournament Appearance

Volleyball:

1 District Championship

Cross Country:

4 Runners Qualified for state Cross country meet 

Reynolds said working at Jellico has been a blessing and that it feels like home.

“I have been blessed to work at Jellico High School for 18 years with an extraordinary group of administrators and teachers. Along with the students and community, they are what makes the Jellico family so special.”

Reynolds and last season’s Blue Devils climbed to heights never before reached by the Blue-n-White as they made it to the elite eight of the state basketball tournament. “The excitement our players had for the tournament really made an impression on me. Seeing the grit they showed to get us here will stay with me. As Jody Wright says anytime your season ends at Murfreesboro, you’ve had a good year. I’m sure the further I get away from this tournament, I think there’ll be more memories that will surface,” said Reynolds.

Every Thursday, WLAF’s Charlotte Underwood features the WLAF – Eagle Tire Pros teacher of the week. That educator also receives a free oil change from Eagle Tire Pros. To nominate a teacher for teacher of the week honors, please send your nomination to wlaf@1450wlaf.com. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-01/09/2025-6AM-PHOTOS COURTESY OF WLAF’S CHARLIE HUTSON)