Doug Joy
Position: Science Teacher, Track Coach, Stud. Leadership
School: John Glenn High School
School District: East Muskingum Local Schools
City, State: New Concord, OH
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Doug Joy was nominated Susan Larson, a parent of a student.
Coach Joy is the definition of a LifeChanger. For over 34 years, he has dedicated himself to shaping lives on the field, in the classroom, and throughout the halls of John Glenn High School. As head coach of the boys' and girls' track teams (both indoor and outdoor) and a former football coach, he consistently seeks out opportunities that provide student-athletes with unique experiences and memories that last a lifetime. His support doesn't end at graduation; he continues to cheer on former athletes as they compete at the collegiate level.
In the classroom, Mr. Joy teaches a variety of science courses and serves as advisor to the Captains Club, a student leadership group that fosters camaraderie and connection across schools. He creates spaces for students to grow not only as athletes or scholars, but also as confident and compassionate leaders.
Coach Joy is known for cultivating a positive and uplifting environment, celebrating victories with energy, and navigating setbacks with unwavering support. His student-athletes and their families often speak of the encouragement and belief he offers, no matter the circumstances. Whether coaching a state champion or helping a student bounce back from disappointment, he consistently inspires and uplifts others.
What truly sets him apart is his humility. Coach Joy credits his success to his athletes and colleagues, and he shows up with a "whatever it takes" spirit—yes, even dressing up as Marvin the Muskie for pep rallies. One small but powerful example: when a senior was struggling to stay engaged during a distracting year, Coach Joy gave him the chance to organize a school-wide dodgeball tournament. That leadership opportunity made all the difference.
"After four sons attending this school and witnessing countless student journeys over the years, I can say without hesitation: Mr. Joy has changed lives and will continue doing so for years to come," said Larson.
Doug lead our daughters academically through collegiate level sciences that helped make their goals attainable. His energy and enthusiasm is contagious and a positive influence to all his students. We're fortunate to have him serve in the classroom and through the extracurricular activities.
Mr. Joy was one of my favorite teachers at JG! He made his classroom an environment where all were included, and genuinely got to know his students. I was an ambassador for the club he started, Captains Club! He was always filled with excitement at our meetings and encouraged us to be honest about our high school experience and told us to think of ideas on how to better it not only for ourselves but future students. He genuinely cared about the culture of our school. Mr. Joy’s name is fitting, because that’s exactly what he brings to JGHS, joy!
Mr. Joy was one of my favorite teachers in high school. He made his classes so fun for us and you just knew he was going to be in the best mood every single day. Definitely a teacher you could count on for support and treated everyone with kindness and respect! This is very well deserved!
Doug Joy exemplifies a highly competitive individual, demonstrating excellence in academics, track, and football. He consistently emphasizes the significance of striving towards attainable objectives in education, athletics, and life, showcasing unwavering dedication and passion for his students and athletes, making him an exemplary leader for young individuals.
I worked with Doug for most of my 30 years at JGHS, many of them in the classroom across the hall. Doug's energy and enthusiasm for teaching, learning, and helping students become their best selves was inspiring to watch. He loved to share his discoveries about students' unique talents and interests. He was always looking for ways to help his students get more out of their JG experience. For some it was pushing them to achieve more academically, like when he added an Advanced Zoology course. The course initially was designed to allow students a less rigorous option for a third science course that would appeal to their interests in animals, and it did that well. My daughter was able to take the advanced class and loved the hands-on challenges of many dissections and collections. I also watched him nurture both talented and dedicated athletes AND less motivated and less athletic students who needed a place to belong with equal enthusiasm on his track and field teams. Doug has poured his abundant energy and his unmitigated passion into making science, the science fair, robotics, football, track and field, student leadership, coaching, and love of learning part of so many JG students' journey.
Mr./Coach Joy is the definition of a life changer. Joy has always been a teacher and coach that goes the extra mile for students all around our area. He was my coach and teacher decades ago and I am thrilled that my kids now have him as a teacher and coach. He always provides a positive environment that is supportive and pushes kids to be their best. I couldn’t ask for a better role model for my kids to have as a teacher and coach.
My son had Mr. Joy as a track coach for 3 years. It is rare to find a coach and teacher so engaged and enthusiastic about his students and athletes. He is most deserving!
Mr. Joy is very dedicated to his students and athletes. He is always saying yes to whatever is brought his way. I enjoy co-advising Captains Club and look forward to what this school year will bring! Congratulations Mr. Joy!
Coach Joy not only a great coach and teacher who my kids love to have in class and on the field. He is a good friend that is one of the hardest workers at everything he does! So deserving
He is truly a "joy" to be around. I had him as a teacher as well as a track coach about 16 years ago. He's always smiling and full of positive energy. He pours his heart into whatever he does, and it simply shows. A well deserved nomination!
Doug Joy has been a great coach to both of my girls! He is so great that my whole family can call him a friend! We are so thankful to have him in our lives!
Joy has been a pivotal member of the JGHS community for so many years. As a student, I always knew he would support me however he could. As a coach, he cared just as much about our success in the classroom as he did on the track. His work with track and cross-country athletes has been nothing short of life-changing.
Now, as an adult, I see even more clearly the time and energy he pours into students. He created programs like Captains Club to keep developing student leaders, always looking for ways to help others grow. When I needed drone footage for my job, he didn’t hesitate to volunteer his time and talents. That’s who he is—someone who simply wants everyone around him to succeed.
Mr. Joy is my dad, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication to not only his job, but his students and athletes. As a first year teacher, I hope I can be at least half the teacher he is someday.
We are so thankful for Mr. Joy! He sacrifices so much of his time for his students and athletes. I've always taught my kids, "See a need, fill a need" and Mr. Joy is an amazing example of living this out and modeling it for our kids.
Teacher/Coach Joy always strives to engage his students/athletes, as well as their parents. He is always looking for ways to help his “kids” reach their goals and full potential, and isn’t afraid to go outside the box for a kid who struggles.
Mr. Joy is one of the most dedicated colleagues I have had the pleasure of working with over many years. I have witnessed countless occasions where he truly has the students’ best interests at heart, both in and outside of the classroom. Students, past and present, consistently share positive comments and uplifting stories about him. Often, they recall funny situations and I know the smile on their faces say it all. There is never a dull moment! Mr. Joy is constantly putting in time and effort, no matter what the task may be, to make the lives of his students better. At the end of the day, it’s all about relationships. The students will always remember the connection they made, and that is what makes an excellent educator. Mr. Joy is top-notch when it comes to forming rapport and meaningful connections, whether the student is an athlete or not. The impact Mr. Joy has made on his students will last a lifetime. His ability to build trust, inspire growth, and the energy he brings to the classroom is exactly what this award represents, and he is the ideal recipient.
No one is more deserving than Mr. Joy. I have watched him change many students and athletes lives in such a positive way. He goes above and beyond every day
Susan's nomination summed it up perfectly! On and off the track, Doug has his student's well-being in his heart!
Coach Joy was my track coach for 3 years. He always went the extra mile to check on his athletes, push positive attitudes, and ensure everyone was having a great time. Truly couldn’t ask for a better coach.
Great role model for all his students.
Super person first - great teacher second!! Relates to his students to help them learn and cares about their success.
Coach Joy was one of the most impactful teachers and coaches I ever had. As my track coach, he pushed me to grow not only as an athlete but also as a person. He taught lessons that extended far beyond the track, lessons about perseverance, discipline, and character. His encouragement and positive influence have stayed with me long after graduation. He is absolutely deserving of the LifeChanger of the Year recognition.
Coach Joy is a great teacher and coach. JG is lucky to have him. He is someone who always has a positive attitude when around him.
#LCOY
Mr. Joy is a mentor to everyone who crosses his path, either directly or indirectly. He believes in his students so much that they can't help but believe in themselves! He encourages them to rise up and be the best version of themselves academically, athletically and in the community.
Super deserving of this award! You sacrifice so much time for kids!!! This is truly an award meant for you! You are a rockstar!!!!
One of the best coaches and teachers I’ve ever had! Always a caring positive attitude and continues to support every student he encounters. Blessed to have come across him in life and will always carry the lessons he taught me throughout my life
Mr. Joy was a great teacher to me. I learned a lot from him, and am grateful to have crossed paths!
