George Henderson

In the heart of Flour Bluff, one teacher’s dedication to his students and community has shaped countless lives over his 23-year career. Mr. Henderson, a teacher and coach at Flour Bluff ISD, shares his journey, passion, and philosophy on teaching. 

His path to teaching was influenced by the guidance of a mentor during his own time at Flour Bluff High School in the 80s. 

“There was this one coach who I always looked up to, and he inspired me to become a teacher and coach just like him,” Henderson said. 

After earning his degree in kinesiology, biology, and education at Texas A&M Corpus Christi, He returned to his alma mater,  Flour Bluff, where he was fortunate enough to coach alongside the very mentor who had influenced him so much.

“It was a full circle moment,” Mr. Henderson said. “I was able to work alongside him when I got hired at Flour Bluff, and it meant a lot to me.”

For him, engagement  is all about building relationships. His philosophy is simple, when students feel understood, they are more motivated to participate and succeed. 

“You’ve got to get to know your students—what makes them tick—and be genuine,” Henderson said. “When you’re authentic with them, they seem to gravitate more towards you, and that helps when it comes to them learning and keeping them interested.” 

Like every educator, he  has faced challenges, but he’s learned to tackle them with a calm and steady approach. His years of experience have shaped his ability to navigate the ups and downs of the classroom. 

“All teachers have their challenges,” Henderson said. Over the course of many years, I've been able to handle them pretty well; as long as you keep a cool headed approach to teaching, you can persevere through anything.” 

From his coaching career, one moment still comes back to him. 

“There was this kid, he had difficulties playing nice with other kids, he needed an outlet so we took him into football,” Henderson said. 

Initially, the boy was resistant, refusing to block or tackle. 

“I told him, ‘You can’t? This is your way to let out your anger a little bit.’” 

To Mr. Henderson's surprise, the boy said something unexpected. He said:

“We just made friends.” 

Mr. Henderson was taken aback because the boy misunderstood, and was always seen as a mean-spirited kid, but in reality, he just wanted a friend. This moment was a reminder of the power of sports and coaching—not just for developing skills, but for promoting personal growth and connection. 

He also values the pride  in the tight-knit community of Flour Bluff ISD. 

“This is the only district I've worked at in my 23 years of teaching and coaching. I’ve gotten to know so many great people and created many relationships with people here,” Henderson said. “Flour Bluff is truly a unique place and it is all about family here.”

Coaching aside, he continues to bring a certain level of structure to his classroom. His focus on building relationships and maintaining respect in the classroom has proven to be an effective strategy over the years. 

“I can be a little strict at times,” Henderson said. “But getting to know and engage with my students helps keep discipline issues to a minimum.” 

For those just starting in education, Mr. Henderson offers valuable advice: 

“You’re not in it alone,” Henderson said. “When that door closes, and you’re faced with a classroom full of students, there’s always someone next door to lend a hand.” 

He emphasizes the importance of reaching out to colleagues, especially during the first few years of teaching. 

“By year 3 or 4, that’s when you start hitting your stride,” Mr. Henderson said. “That’s when you become the teacher you want to be.”

As a teacher for the college and career exploration class at Flour Bluff Junior High, he sets clear goals for his students.  He guides them  toward a career path they feel passionate about, whether that’s college, trade school, or the workforce. 

“I want them to find something that they enjoy, something that sparks their interest,” Henderson said.

Born and raised in Flour Bluff, he  has a deep connection to the area. His commitment to his community shines through in every aspect of his career.

“I’m proud to say that I was born in the Bluff, raised in the Bluff, went to school in the Bluff, graduated from the Bluff, worked in the Bluff, and hopefully, I’ll retire in the Bluff,” Henderson said.

Outside of teaching, Mr. Henderson is a devoted family man. His wife also  works for the district as a Secretary at Flour Bluff Junior High, and have been married for 24 years. They have two sons, one of whom is a Flour Bluff graduate, while the other is currently attending school Flour Bluff. 

From his childhood, he has a moment that sparked his love for Star Wars, one of his hobbies. 

“When I was a kid, my mother took me and my brother on a family vacation to Japan,” Henderson said. “I saw Star Wars on the big screen for the first time, and I’ve been a fan ever since.” 

His love for adventures has also led him to travel across Europe, Asia, and the U.S., with each trip offering small yet unforgettable memories. 

“All the countries I’ve been to have shaped who I am today,” Henderson said.

As a teacher who has dedicated over two decades to Flour Bluff ISD, he  has seen many changes and challenges. But one thing remains constant: his commitment to his students and his community. 

“I’m here for the kids, and I’ll continue to be here as long as I can,” Henderson said. 

In a world that’s constantly changing, it’s clear that Mr. Henderson is shaping the future of Flour Bluff one student at a time.