Scott Harmon, or coach Harmon as many know him throughout Oklahoma, is the head football coach and Director of Football Operations for Ponca City Public Schools. Recently coach Harmon decided to add another title to his resume; graduate of the Southern Nazarene Master of Arts in Educational Leadership (MAEL).

Harmon said one reason SNU was the right fit for him was the scheduling of classes.

“SNU provided both the right schedule as a head football coach and practical curriculum I was seeking when I decided to get into administration,” said Harmon.

The faculty at SNU was exactly what Harmon wanted from him instructors.

“SNU’s professors were all either current or past public school administrators. They were able to offer experienced advice; also allowed me to build a solid support group of fellow administrators,” said Harmon.

Having the master’s degree in Educational Leadership will allow Harmon to expand his ability to run an athletic department and take on a administrative role in the school system such as Principal or Superintendent.

“My Masters in MAEL has provided me with opportunities I never would have had otherwise. My experience as a secondary Principal has been an asset to both my roles here in Ponca City Public Schools,” said Harmon.

Something that surprised Harmon about the program with the technology.

“They really helped me get out of the 80’s in terms of technology. I was terrible with it going into the program. I am very serviceable now,” said Harmon.

Harmon said anyone looking to advance their career should consider SNU and the MAEL program.

“I had a mentor force me into administration to be totally honest, but once I decided to get into administration, it was a no brainer. It has changed my career in education so much for the better. I highly recommend it,” said Harmon.