By Payton Moody
Drue Brown is a dedicated educator and coach who brings a unique blend of teaching and coaching skills to Stillwater High School. With a heart for both academics and athletics, Brown has made a significant impact on students’ lives both in and out of the classroom.
Brown is a devoted family man, married to his wife, Natalie, for a decade. They have three children – Andy (8), Bella (7), and Corbi (5). Teaching and learning are truly a family affair for the Browns, as Natalie is also an SPS employee.
At Stillwater High School, Brown wears multiple hats. He’s the head volleyball coach, leading the Lady Pioneer Volleyball team with passion and dedication. This marks Brown’s second year at SHS, both as a teacher and head volleyball coach. In his nine years of teaching, all of which have been in Stillwater, he has left his mark at various educational levels and subjects, including geography, physical education and geometry.
Brown’s journey into education was a conscious choice to work with students, inspired during his college years when he tutored at an elementary school. He changed his major from engineering to education, drawn by the joy of working with young minds and making a positive impact.
Throughout his educational journey, Brown had strong role models. His 5th-grade teacher, Mrs. Ellard, in Tecumseh, Oklahoma, and his parents, both educators, influenced his teaching approach. Mrs. Ellard’s ability to make learning enjoyable while maintaining an approachable demeanor left a lasting impression.
The heart of Brown’s teaching lies in his genuine connection with his students. He values the opportunity to motivate students in subjects that may not be their favorite and strives to keep them engaged. His dedication to his community and students is a reflection of his love for Stillwater.
For prospective teachers, Brown’s advice is to focus on being a positive influence. He encourages educators to strive to be the “one positive thing kids can count on,” a sentiment that defines his teaching philosophy.
Drue Brown is not just an educator and coach; he’s a positive role model, fostering connections that leave a lasting impact on the lives he touches.