My name is Gary Cooper, and I am seeking a seat on the Webster Parish School Board for District 11. I have been a resident of Webster Parish for over 30 years. I hold a BS in Math Education and an MS in Health and Physical Education with an emphasis in sports science. I spent 40 years in education, 28 of them in Webster Parish, before retiring in May 2024. I was a classroom math teacher for my entire teaching career, and I coached several sports along the way. I was head football coach for eight years at Lakeside Jr./Sr. High School and head softball coach for 25 years, first at Minden High and then at Sibley and Lakeside. For roughly my last 10 years, I also served as athletic director. During my coaching career I was a member of the LHSCA, the LHSADA, and the LSCA, where I served two terms on the executive committee. I have much of my life invested in education and in Webster Parish. Both of my children attended Webster Parish schools and graduated from Lakeside with honors. They went on to graduate from Northwestern State University and Ouachita Baptist University, one with a degree in education and the other in Christian Studies.
I have always enjoyed motivating students, both in the classroom and on the athletic field. Working with administrators, faculty, and staff was a pleasure as well. That is why I have decided to run for school board. I believe I have a good understanding of how the school system works, and I am confident I can work cooperatively with others to make it even better. I also know I have big shoes to fill.
Outside of school, I am currently a deacon at Heflin Baptist Church, where I served as youth minister for eight years. Terri Cooper and I have been married for 41 years, and along with our two children we have five wonderful grandchildren. I enjoy the outdoors and spend as much time as I can in the woods and on the water.
Another reason I am running is that I would like to continue serving the students, administrators, faculty, staff, and taxpayers of Webster Parish. I want to be as transparent as possible, to listen to the concerns of the people of Webster Parish and especially District 11, and to help our community in any way I can. I would appreciate your consideration. Thank you.