Longtime H-F Teacher Lands Role At Sandburg

ORLAND PARK, IL — Carl Coates, who has taught at Homewood-Flossmoor High School for 18 years, will move on to a new role at Carl Sandburg High School in Orland Park. Coates was hired by the Consolidated High School District 230 last week as the next division chair for social studies, art and world languages at Sandburg.

For the first 13 years of his time at H-F, Coates taught economics, history and government. He was the social science department chair at the school for the last five years, according to a news release from District 230.

“Throughout the interview process, Carl Coates not only demonstrated an elite understanding of best practices in curriculum and instruction, but also communicated a vision for instructional leadership that will undoubtedly have a positive impact on students, staff, and Carl Sandburg High School," Sandburg Principal Jen Tyrrell said. "Carl’s experience leading department and building improvement efforts will be an asset to our learning community.”

Coates was also the professional development coordinator at H-F, facilitating institute day presentations and the new teacher induction program. He said expressed excitement ahead of his new role in Orland Park.

“Over the years, I’ve gotten some glimpses of what Sandburg’s teachers are doing and have been impressed by their creativity and innovation," Coates said. "My conversations with teachers and administrators during the interview process cemented my excitement about joining Sandburg. I can’t wait to contribute to Sandburg’s goal of being in the top 1% of high schools in the state.”

Before he was at H-F, Coates taught social studies at Plano Senior High School near Dallas.