We Are the League Feature Series: Meet Koua Yang
Posted: Monday, November 4, 2024 - 9:00 AM
Koua Yang, a longtime St. Paul Public Schools educator, coach and administrator, is the beloved and respected athletic director at Como Park High School.
Editor's Note: Welcome to We Are the League, a feature series that recognizes the work, dedication and enthusiasm of individuals who are essential in making opportunities within the Minnesota State High School League a truly great experience for all. During this series, you will meet an incredible array of individuals who will share their journeys through education-based activities. The League hopes you enjoy this recognition series.
Current role and career path
- I graduated from St. Paul Como Park in the early 1990's and then attended Augsburg College for my licensure in teaching. I also have a Master's in Technology and Learning from the University of Minnesota, St. Mary's. My first job was at St. Paul Harding as a social studies teacher. I taught Human Geography, Economics, Government, Civics, and Asian Studies for 18 years. Additionally, I coached wrestling, boys soccer, boys tennis, and girls tennis, both at Harding and Como Park. After 20 years at Harding, I was offered the athletic director position at Como Park. It was a full-circle moment as I was reunited with many of my former teachers and coaches.
Favorite high school memories
- Ah, the good old days! The best and most formative times in high school were with my teammates at practices and tournaments. I was fortunate enough to share some wonderful memories with some of my lifelong friends at the state tournament in wrestling. We can all say we suffered together cutting weight, usually by very odd means.
Why I enjoy being involved with high school activities
- As an immigrant from the 1980's, I never imagined all the activities available to kids. Sports and activities were an integral part of my upbringing. It gave me a sense of purpose in school and helped me find balance in other areas of my life. The life skills that sports taught me mirrored the values of my family: a strong work ethic, dedication, and loyalty to a community. These are the same skills that I try to develop with the kids that I have educated and coached. It is the ultimate way to give back from which I received.
Koua Yang, far right, uses his role as an administrator to help guide students to successes through participation in activities.
Building community spirit through outreach and service are ways Koua Yang illustrates to his students the importance of giving back.
