Wesley Coatney performing a choir solo. Photo Creds: Rachel Ingram, Watauga Yearbook
Wesley Coatney is a senior at Watauga and has two older brothers who have graduated from Watauga. Coatney is an incredibly active and committed student. Apart from taking vigorous classes, he also runs track and XC, sings in the choir, plays piano in the jazz band, plays keys in a local band, and is the Vice President of the Sustainability Club. Outside of school, he leads a worship group, writes, and records his own personal music.
“My biggest two time commitments have been running and choir,” said Coatney. “I have run Cross Country and track every year, which means year-round training. This takes a lot of time and energy, making running hard to balance with school.”
As the brother of two accomplished Watauga High School alumni, he has been pushed to pursue an academically-inclined schedule and continues to set a high standard for himself.
“My brothers set a strong example for me academically going into high school. They encouraged me to take difficult course loads and set high grade expectations for myself,” said Coatney. “I was encouraged when I saw my oldest brother graduate college in only three years because he had so many AP credits going in.”
All students face difficult decisions as they select their course load, attempting to balance academic courses with electives they will enjoy. Taking such a full load of academic courses takes away availability to take electives and classes in the arts, which Coatney says is one of his regrets of his high school career.
“I have more fun in class when I am challenged. If I already understand the material and don’t need to focus, I lose interest in the class,” said Coatney. “The downside of focusing mostly on academics is that I regret not taking some arts classes.”
Mrs. Wilson, Coatney’s AP US History teacher last year, recognizes and appreciates Coatney’s dedication and commitment to his academics.
“Wesley is a fun student to have in class!” said Wilson. “He also gets along with everyone: both peers and adults. Wesley shows up with a positive attitude and he is typically ready to learn.”
On top of his commitment to school, church, and sports, Coatney participated in Mr. WHS, a school pageant show in which Watauga’s male students compete to raise money for local families in need. After showcasing his musical talents and singing ability, Coatney won the title of Mr. WHS.
“I also participated in the Mr. WHS fundraiser which takes at least a month of dedicated time and effort,” said Coatney.
Through his continuous academic, athletic, and musical achievements, Coatney continues to be an excellent example of a Watauga student, and his efforts were rewarded when he was crowned Mr. WHS, following in his older brother, Henry Coatney’s, footsteps.
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