Teacher Feature | Mrs. Yarborough

Since joining Second Baptist School in August 2020, Mrs. Elleana Yarborough, lovingly known as “Coach Y,” has quickly become a beloved figure both in the classroom and on the field. Initially starting as a substitute teacher and middle school Spirit team coach, her passion for teaching and coaching soon solidified her permanent role at SBS. Her journey to the school was fueled by her deep interest in the unique cheer and dance program the school had implemented, which she knew would provide her with a fun and dynamic opportunity. 

Reflecting on her decision to teach and coach at Second Baptist School, Coach Y fondly recalls the welcoming environment and the supportive nature of her colleagues. “Once I started working here at Second, I immediately fell in love with the environment. After subbing several classes, the other teachers and administrators were so warm and welcoming that I knew it was where I wanted to stay and teach,” she shares.

One thing Mrs. Yarborough is most passionate about is teaching writing. With a degree in English writing, she is determined to help her students find their voices. “Writing is the most important subject because it is used in every subject other than just English,” she says. What she loves most about teaching writing is watching her students’ personalities emerge through their work. “It is so much fun teaching students how to put their thoughts on paper, and they never cease to amaze me with all the things they have to say!”

What makes her class unique is the innovative way she introduces informational writing. One standout project her students completed was the creation of a radio show. For this assignment, students are assigned a variety of segments, such as the weather or current events, and another segment to research what the students are passionate about and present it in an engaging format. Mrs. Yarborough notes that this project allows her students’ personalities to shine while helping them develop valuable research and presentation skills.

Besides her work in the classroom, Mrs. Yarborough also finds joy in coaching students. Whether on the sidelines coaching cheer or in her writing classroom, she feels privileged to share her passions with her students. “It is such a unique place to be in a student's life, and I am truly blessed with the opportunity to do both,” she explains. The excitement she feels when a student experiences a breakthrough or achieves a goal fuels her passion for teaching and coaching. “There is nothing better than when one of my students or athletes has that ‘AHA!’ moment. Whether that is a student understanding a concept or an athlete mastering a skill. I love seeing the excitement within them; that is where my passion for my job ignites!”

For Mrs. Yarborough, her students and athletes are the heart of her work. She is dedicated to instilling a love of learning, writing, and teamwork in all of them. Whether she’s on the field coaching or in the classroom teaching, Coach Y continues to inspire her students with her enthusiasm and dedication.

- Sarah Cela '26 | Communications Fellow