John Reid
Position: Physical Education Teacher
School: Gilcrest Elementary School
School District: Weld RE-1 School District
City, State: Gilcrest, CO
Support John
Leave a comment
John Reid was nominated anonymously.
"John Reid is the kind of teacher that kids remember for a lifetime, and not just because they have a ton of fun in his classroom, but because they can feel and experience his love and dedication for each of them. John spent six years with the United States Marine Corps. After being medically retired in 2012 due to a combat-related injury, he began his journey toward getting a college degree in the fall of 2013. John was taking general classes while deciding on a new career path, but in 2016, his best friend Josh died at the young age of 30 from a heart attack. That's when John knew that he had an incredible opportunity to help kids become healthy and active for a lifetime. In 2019, he graduated from the University of Northern Colorado as a Physical Education teacher," said the nominator.
"For five years, John has been the PE teacher at an amazing Title One school in Gilcrest, Colorado. In that time, he has made changes to the school that positively impact students' everyday lives, such as movement carts for classroom teachers that promote physical activity and an optional before-school fitness program," said the nominator. "John has positively impacted the school community by building a frisbee golf course where they hold yearly fundraisers for the PTO. He also built a unique movement program based on social and emotional wellness. This program has probably made the biggest impact on the students as they learn to navigate communication, collaboration, leadership, and problem-solving, all through movement. The intention behind each component of the movement program is unlike anything else happening in the world of education, and the students love it because, to them, it feels like they're playing an enjoyable and exciting game. This program is the future of education, building the competency of the whole child so that they can apply these skills in the future as 21st-century learners."
"Over the last five years, he has also acquired over $20,000 in grants and financial support for his school. The grants have allowed him to build lifetime skills with students through the purchase of strider bikes to teach kindergarten and first graders to ride a bicycle proficiently, rollerblades for a wheels unit in grades 2-5, archery equipment for grades 4-5, and golf equipment to teach students the foundational skills of golf. He is incredibly passionate about creating an equitable experience for all his students," said the nominator.
"John has also had the honor of representing Gilcrest Elementary at the state and national level multiple times over the last five years. He has presented at the Society of Health and Physical Education (SHAPE) America conferences in Nashville, Tampa Bay, New Orleans, Seattle, and Cleveland in 2024. He has also been a presenter at SHAPE Colorado for five years and was recognized as the 2022 Young Professional of the Year. He was awarded Teacher of the Year in 2021 at Gilcrest Elementary and has even been recruited to give presentations and keynote speeches at SHAPE Alaska, as well as a district-wide professional development training in Oklahoma," said the nominator.
"I have never known a teacher as dedicated, creative, and compassionate as John. There is nothing that gets in his way when he puts his mind and his heart into it, and his students' well-being is his number one priority. John has woven himself into the fabric of the Gilcrest community over the last five years, and I cannot even begin to fathom the level of impact he will achieve in the coming years. I can think of no one more deserving of recognition than John Reid," said the nominator.
I first met John a handful of years ago at a national Health and PE education conference (SHAPE America) in Nashville. As a fellow passionate professional, I was instantly drawn to John's energy and charisma. We paired up for a small activity within that session and haven't stopped connecting since. I look forward to seeing and embracing John every year at the National Conference as we swap stories and wisdom.
I have never witnessed John teach students, but I don't have to to know how amazing of a teacher he is. I've attended his presentations where I can feel the passion and energy he brings to his students every single day.
They are so lucky to have him, and he would tell you that he is so lucky to have them! John is an inspiration for students, teachers, and the everyday human!
Coach Reid is the absolute BEST PE teacher I’ve ever had the privilege of working with! He is in it for the students and keeps their well being at the forefront of all he does. He is a true leader!
John teaches at a school in the town where my father grew up. I myself, as well as relatives and others have noticed the significance change in the development of the students from his teaching. As well as his implementations of equipment and more interactive learning techniques and methods. This is insurmountable on a child’s life when you grow up in such environments as his school. He has instilled creativity in different aspects which adds to the value a child feels. This is appreciated as there is so much diversity and it has brought individuals feeling inclusion from all his efforts. This is further demonstrated as I have positive experience’s when he helped us develop into better players as his teammate and across our teammates of all ages on our Colorado Sled Hockey Team.
Thank you John.
John always leads by example. His students are lucky to have him!
Coach Reid was student teaching at my high school during his student teaching period about 5 years ago. I’m not a super athletic person and frankly I hated PE classes through school. When Reid was student teaching both of my gym classes, I was always so excited to be there and push myself because he was a huge supporter of all of us in the class. We built up such a great relationship and he made a lasting impact on my life. We laughed during class, he pushed us all to better ourselves, and he shared his life story which had impacted me deeply. No matter what he went through, or is going through, he was always there to be our biggest cheerleader and give us the motivation to persevere. Coach Reid will always have such a great impact on my life, and I’m so glad I know him!
It is easy for people to amplify what they do for their community in the social media age. It is rare to have the community amplify what their member does for them. His students are excited to see him, he receives commendations from peers, his fellow Marines praise him, his players trust him, and I am happy to call John a friend. If that doesn’t epitomize a life changer, I don’t know what does.
I am a physical education teacher from Türkiye. We did a joint project with Coach Reid and he did not break us. We had a joint lesson online. We did his special video sports exercises with our students, teachers and Mr. Reid. Thanks to him very much.
Coach Reid has been a phenomenal coach, and someone that’s always gotten through to me as a mentor. I am greatly appreciative of his coaching and contributions during my time playing high school football.
Coach Reid has had a huge impact on my life. He has been a role model in my life for 6 years now and has helped me get through multiple injuries but also make me a better man. I can’t thank him enough for everything he has done and the impact he left on me.
I first met John when coaching the freshman football team at Mead High school. We share a unique bond since we are both marines. John is one of two or three people I have known in my life who are truly LIFE changers. He has the very rare God given ability to interact with kids/teens where they are in life while also inspiring them to strive for greatness in every aspect of life. As adults, we often forget what it was like being and thinking as a kid/teen. John understands their mindset while at the same time holding them accountable for their actions and teaching them how to make more mature decisions in the future. He is very demanding but fair. He sets out clear expectations and also explains the results for compliance and non-compliance. He is the first one to teach them from their failures and first one to congratulate them on their successes.
John is truly deserving of this award.
John Reid is one of the unique individuals who genuinely cares about the success of his peers and subordinates. As an educator, John Reid will sacrifice his own time to ensure that others understand the material and have achieved mastery of the concept. John Reid has the ability to elevate others around him, and motivates them to work harder. John Reid is a deserving candidate, and an outstanding person.
John is a respected, decorated and accomplished leader from our unit in the Marine Corps. And he’s continued to lead his peers after serving. John has created more community among the veterans of our unit than anyone else. It is a source of vicarious pride for us that one of our own would also be leader in his community as John is. John is truly someone who makes a difference no matter what he does.
John and I went to the University of Northern Colorado together for our teaching licenses. I got to see first hand what an incredible educator he is. His way of teaching is so captivating and really gets any person, young or old, engaged and wanting more. The first time I really met John, he taught a sample lesson to our class and came out wearing a full safari outfit complete with the personality for us to learn different styles of travel. I was so impressed. Since then, he has presented at countless conferences and professional development sessions, create incredible learning opportunities for his school and students and continues to strive to do what’s best for kids. John is top tier!
I’ve had the pleasure of teaching summer school alongside John. He had such a magnetic energy that draws all the kids in. He is the best PE teacher I have seen in action. He sets up every student in his gym for success by providing structured fun. He cares for his students deeply and is always getting donations to get his students what they need. Not only is John an incredible teacher, he is also an incredible human.
John is an example in so many communities of what it means to Give Back. He is a leader to veterans and the hockey world, proving that teamwork and camaraderie can thrive after service and injury on the ice.
John has been innovative before his first official teaching job. His presentations in state and national have always been out side of the box. They were easy to apply and helped teachers shift their teaching. He has always focused his teaching on SEL through many different applications. He goes above and beyond to provide opportunities for his students that are relevant and through his shared experiences.
Coach Reid has been a great coach and mentor during my high school career. He taught me many life skills and was a great role model for many young men. I will forever be grateful and look up to coach Reid.
I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to have learned from John. He has such a unique way of teaching others. He knows that teaching is always evolving and what works for one individual will not always work with another. When he doesn't know something he will learn it. The selflessness and passion he shows is remarkable. I know everyone who is under his wing is safe, learning, and growing to their best. John leaves a lasting impression for the Years to come.
John is a perfect example of what dedication to students looks like. He spends countless hours ensuring that his students gain knowledge in not only physical health, but social emotional skills as well. He makes learning fun!
Coach Reid is an exceptional teacher, consistently going above and beyond for his students. He dedicates extra effort to ensure that his curriculum is both exciting and educational for each individual. The students at our school love his PE class!
John shows his commitment to becoming better every single day in every facet of life: as a dad, an athlete, a teacher, and a leader. It takes strength to give so fully to so many different people and communities, and John does so with grace.
Coach Reid is a one in a million kind of teacher. He goes the distance every single day to set kids up for a healthy and successful lifestyle. His passion is contagious and a wonderful thing to see.
John is an amazing leader, mentor, coach, teacher, father, friend and the list goes on. He inspires countless people everyday and his community wouldn’t be the same without him.
John is one of the most focused and motivated people I know. I've never known a teacher to care as much about his students as he does.
John and I go all the way back to 2nd grade. It’s amazing to look back on our childhood spent playing street hockey, backyard baseball, and Thanksgiving morning football, while now seeing his dedication to teaching kids through exercise and movement. As a special education social worker, I am very aware of the importance of John’s work in helping kids grow socially, and emotionally, through his incredibly creative work and leadership. The guy is just a great friend and phenomenal teacher.
John is someone always willing to give his time to help others get better. He is inspirational and a natural leader, and for that our sled hockey team is lucky to call him a team mate .
Coach Reid is such an inspiration to his students. He always goes above and beyond with whatever he does. My son loves attending P.E. every single time!
I had the privilege of serving with John in the Marines. He has always been a great leader and would take it upon himself to educate those around him to better our company. His ability to translate his learned leadership and teaching abilities in order to better the health of the youth in his community should serve as an inspiration to everyone.
John is an amazing person and father, great sled hockey teammate, and honorable Marine; just to name a few. He strives to do his best and makes everyone want to also with his big smile and words of encouragement. I don't know anyone more deserving of this prestigious award =^.^=!
John is the definition of a standup guy. He was a fantastic Marine, excellent leader, and a true friend during our years together in the military. John was always an inspiration to the younger Marines and his passion to teach and share knowledge was clear even back then. The next generation is truly fortunate to have John as an educator. I'm grateful to call John a friend.
I served with John in 2/4 and he’s has always been a leader and a teacher. To see him being recognized is a great accomplishment for a man who more than deserves it. John is a family man and he treats his fellow veterans as family and it’s no surprise he treats his students as family. Great job John and proud to call you a brother!
John is one of the most enthusiastic people on Earth and it shows in everything he does. Whether it is make the most of his time with his family, friends, or students his positive energy is infectious. As a PE teacher I am sure that even as adults his students will remember Mr.Reid as their favorite teacher.
John has one of those personalities that makes you want to be the best version of yourself. Truly inspirational. Working along side John for 4 years gave me the opportunity to see his approach to leadership under all manner of conditions. Through it all, John remained positive and executed sound judgement in the face of adversity. John would give you the shirt off his back, and he’s fun to be around too. You’re a real hero to your community, John.
Mr. Reid was my health teacher and left a personal impact on my life. He not only invested in me but personally shared his connections and experience with me to propel me forward. I can’t imagine what my high school experience would’ve been like without him. Very proud and glad to have had him in my life
John is a fantastic teacher and human being, he does wonders on getting the kids to participate, besides being a great nephew.
John Reid has taught me many lessons about being a good person as well as being a good physical education teacher. He has showed me what it means to go above and beyond to get students the best equipment. He is the best PE teacher I have ever met.
Were do I start. John is a man that motivates all those around him and will be there for you in any situation. He opens his heart to those he meets and treats them like family. John’s attention to detail and dedication to a task at hand is unparalleled. I’m forever grateful to have served with him.
I had the privilege of serving and deploying with John during our time together in First Marine Division. Even as a young adult, John stood apart as a leader and a motivator to the platoon. As I was new to the unit
John immediately took me under his wing by making sure I had a mentor and friend to help me adapt to the Marine Corps way of life. It came to me as no surprise that following retirement from the military, John has continued to strive to be a leader in his community and excels as a positive role model and instructor in what is perhaps is the most important and needed profession in our nation today.
So grateful for the privilege of knowing John all these years. He's a fellow veteran and teacher whose dedication has left an indelible mark on countless servicemen, veteran, disabled, and childrens lives. Your commitment to service and education has inspired us all. Wishing you continued success on your journey, and may your impact resonate for years to come. Semper Fi My fellow 2/4 "MB"
I confidently speak on behalf of 30+ individuals from our platoon, who John has impacted and changed their lives for the better. I guarantee the children he now devotes his time to feel the same way. The man's heart only knows love, his passion to help and heal is fueled by a eternal flame.
John Reid is our nephew and while we have always been proud of his accomplishments, this is a recognition close to our hearts. As teachers ourselves, we are so grateful to know that passion for the whole child is part of his motivation to change the world one child at a time. Caring for others is part of his DNA. John’s grandparents and parents taught him to be open to all the opportunities in his life. What appears to be a negative can become a positive, as his creative physical education programs demonstrate. Making a task into a game is something his grandmother did to make learning fun.
He is a self-starter and a motivator. Working to give of himself is what he has always done. We are thankful for his dream and his commitment to the children of Gilcrest and their future.
My wife and I have known John for the last 3 years. During that time John has been a mentor to our son for sled hockey. John has been spending countless hours with our son to one day chase his dreams to make the Paralympic team.
Coach Reid was the best motivator and life coach for our football team. The way he changed my life perspective cannot be put into words. Since the first day I got to Mead he has guided me and always put a positive spin on everything that happened. He made sure I always kept my head up. Will forever and always be grateful for Coach Reid.
John got my husband and I into playing sled hockey. He has always been a leader for the hockey sessions we have had on the ice, as well as has been a great mentor toward beginners through seasoned players.
John Reid helped me get through some of the toughest times during my high school career and I owe most of my success in school and life to him.
John's professionalism and dedication to his students is second to none! It is an honor to call him my friend. Semper Fi
Mr. Reid, or to me, Coach Reid is more than deserving of such an award. He has always been there for me, as well as a countless number of students all different ages and at multiple schools. His character is truly exemplary, whether he is trying to help with a situation that is physical and for a sport or something more physiological and mental, he never strays away from helping anyone. He has been through so much, and to see what a great human and role model he is to, not just a small number of people or a tiny community, but multiple communities that have or still rely on him to support and excel the people he surrounds as a whole, is very motivating and inspiring. He never gives and excuse or backs out on anything, he is always up for a challenge, and he finds ways to create resolution in the most difficult situations. He is a true man of his word, and at the core his heart always has other best interests in mind. I’m so happy he has been nominated for this award!
John Reid was my football coach in high school and I don’t have enough kind words to say about him. He was a role model not just for me but everyone on that team. His presence was felt, always uplifting us and encouraging us. He gave the best speeches, and always told us what we really needed to hear. The memories and values he left me with are unforgettable. I have so much respect and gratitude for you coach. Thank you, and congratulations!
John has been changing lives since the day I meet him over 15 years ago. Always willing to give his time to others to teach, mentor, and make a positive impact. He is the person I want teaching my kids!!
For three years Coach Reid was my football coach at Mead high school. Currently I am playing college football at Colorado Mesa. Coach Reid was a coach who mentored me through tough times, no matter the day I was having. He was always putting a smile on my face. Coach is one of the few mentors I look up to, and one of the best people I know.
Coach Reid is one of the best coaches I've ever had the honor of working with, he's helped me get through a lot of hard times throughout highschool when he helped coach my football team. He is an amazing coach and a great man.
John Reid has helped grow the game of sled hockey with his passion and drive, I watched him develop a program in Greeley from scratch! He would help the Warrior Avs run special try sled hockey events in cities all over Colorado! He has given Veterans with disabilities a second chance to overcome barriers on and off the ice. John’s leadership helps Colorado and Colorado sled hockey youth develop on and off the ice by developing confidence through social events and also competition for National Championships from his sled hockey club!
I served with John, and even then he was a teacher and a leader. He was one of the best marines and it's no surprise he has gone on to be a great father, husband and now teacher. He teaches with enthusiasm and example. I would be very happy to have my kids be educated by this man. Keep doing what your doing john.
John is a wonderful man, mentor and friend. He has a way of making anyone feel seen, valued and welcome
My son always lights up when he sees Coach Reid and Coach is always happy to say hi and motivate my son.
Great man. Keeps kids wanting more. Kids love friday mornings and can't wait.
I have known this young man since he was a small child, and he has been nothing but exemplary all his life how lucky we are to have teachers that there is vested in students and education and PE as what JP Reid is he is a model for other teachers as well. I am so proud of him.
Love to see the excitement in the kids face with the skills he teaches. All that he has brought to Gilcrest Elementary. Mr. Reid goes above and beyond for his students.
John has his own fan club with all the students and has a way to talk to them and helps them is truly incredible!
From my 17 year old son to my 5 year old, they only have great things to say about him! Coach Reid is not only an awesome role model but has great ideas to implement healthy and fun lifestyle choices for the kids!
Coach Reid is an amazing individual! He does SO much for SO many people! He brings the best out of every student he sees everyday at Gilcrest. He is the most dedicated teacher I have ever met in that he works extremely hard outside of contract hours to make Gilcrest Elementary’s Physical Education courses top notch! Since our funding is so low, he finds ways to get equipment donated from large companies. He not only works hard for his program but for our teachers’ well being as well!! He deserves this award!!!!
Coach Reid has made such a positive impact on our school. My kids are always excited to see him, and he always greets them with a smile and a high five.
Muchas felicidades eres un muy buen maestro para nuestros niños sigue triunfando
Lo conosco muy poco pero es muy buen maestro mi hija estudia con el y a tenido muchos logros en sus estudios
John Paul Reid grew up in Traverse City, Michigan, a few blocks away from where we live. He is a very special friend of my son and our family. John was always optimistic, enthusiastic, full of fun, with just the right sprinkling of mischief! The time he spent at our home was a blessing. When it came time for my son Matthew to get married, John was supposed to be in the wedding, but was unable to be in attendance, as he was deployed, serving our country. We left a spot for him where he should have stood, all thinking of him and wishing he were present. When John was wounded, we were cut to the core with concern and worry. All of us who love him, watched him rise up, pull himself up by his bootstraps, and marveled at his perseverance and tenacity as he moved forward with his beautiful family, his education, and his successful teaching career. We are all very pleased; however, not necessarily surprised. It has always been evident, through his entire life, that John has what it takes to be good for himself, as well as others. While I am in Michigan, and he teaches states away, there's no doubt in my mind that John is a superior educator, giving his absolute all for his students, as well as those he works with. I want to be in his class :-) Submitted with gratitude, respect, and love, Mama Donna
I had the privilege of meeting John on a Warriors and Quiet Waters fly fishing trip last May. While my role was to support him through the experience, he quickly became a mentor to me. His mentorship is one that I still turn when dealing with tough situations. One reason is because he has the ability to see other’s potential even when we can’t see it in ourselves. He doesn’t give up on others. This gift is reflected in his teaching and how he interacts with others. John has found a balance between professionalism and lightheartedness which makes him a favorite among students. He is driven in his profession because of his passion for helping others. I’m proud to know him and hope to be like him someday!
I also graduated from the University of Northern Colorado’s PE program and I have seen just a fraction of the time he has put into his program but he has had such a powerful and incredible positive influence in the profession. I hope to be on his level one day
John, it is so awesome to watch what you have accomplished with your career, the school and the veteran community! We are so proud to know you!
Congrats, John! Sending support from Massachusetts for you and your program!
Coach Reid is by far the most passionate, loving, and caring educator I've ever meet. Daily he touches the lives of students who need love, recognition, and encouragement. He deeply believes in every student and helps them to believe in themselves. I am proud to call him a colleague and a friend. Thank you for all you do!!
Not only is John Reid a teacher that students remember for a lifetime hes a friend and mentor from the Marine Corps that I will personally remember for a lifetime. He instilled hard work and discipline in me and I will forever be grateful for that. One heck of a guy!
This young man is a asset any school and or community he is kind and has a great sense of humor he is well respected by his friends and peers I wish him nothing but the best
John is a phenomenal young man. I have watched him grow from a small boy.. to the amazing man
he is today. John has always had a spark of adventure.. and a love of making others feel comfortable
and accepted. Not to say he wasn't a handful at times.. but his antics were the flavor that is "John."
He lights up the room with his presence.. and his easy going ways..make everyone pay attention.
John has learned that fighting for the underdog.. is a great way to live your life.. And that it inspires
others to do the same. He is loyal.. and a man of his word.. His talents with children are exemplary.
Partially because he will always be that big kid himself. John has always remembered the golden
rule. "Treat others.. as you would want to be treated."
With great pride.. and love.. I am proud to call him "Son."
Such an amazing and committed young man. So full of enthusiasm and talent for his students. He deserves all the best for all he does for the good of others..
John deserves this recognition! I know him as an educator and person. He shows up for kids everyday and gets them excited for learning. The videos he has created to engage students in moving their bodies are next level. The world would be a better place with more John Reid’s in it.
I’ve been in education for over a decade and I have never met a more dedicated and tenacious educator. No one loves deeper, works harder or gives more than this guy. So proud to see his name on this list and be a part of his journey as he changes the lives of the students in his community!
I’m so proud to know John! Watching him fulfill a greater purpose helping kids was been awesome.
John is a rockstar of a human being and nothing less than a gift to our future leaders. ANY school and community is lucky to have him. If you want your child to be taught positive leadership and to grow up with self esteem, Reid is your man. If he isn’t on the billboard coming into town, you’re wrong.
Coach Reid is an amazing teacher hands down he truly loves his students and they benefit from not only his teaching but his belief in them and what they are capable of! “He teaches us about sports but we learn about friendship, sportsmanship, and fairness. He always makes me feel good and proud of my accomplishments.” My 3rd grade son Jackson (has been with coach Reid since 2020) “Coach makes school fun and i like learning about how to make my body healthy! Coach always says it’s an Easy Day!” My 1st grade daughter Noah says! (She’s been with coach since 2021!)
Coach Reid is such an amazing teacher to our kids in Gilcrest. They all love him and he is always so motivating.
One of the best teachers in our profession. Not only has he impacted students but fellow teachers. I remember meeting John on zoom. I was an overwhelmed student who really didn’t know if he wanted to teach anymore. John took the time answered my questions. I later met John I shape New Orleans he called my name took the time to
Say hello to me. Gave me advice. John is not only a leader in the classroom but a mentor for me from afar. I hope to be a teacher like John someday!
I appreciate what he has done and continues to do to get our kids involved and moving! He is highly involved in activities and I, as a parent, appreciate that beyond measure. On a side note, my youngest has been so excited to attend Gym Ratz on Friday morning, she thinks it's the greatest thing ever. We appreciate you Coach Reid!
John shows up for his students in so many ways. I've loved watching his teaching journey from afar and hope that my own kids have teachers that go "all in" for their students.
