The beloved math teacher, Elizabeth Ferguson, is taking on a new challenge from beyond the classroom, becoming the new coach of the girls’ JV cross country team. Even though many know her for her dedication to teaching math, Ms. Ferguson is taking her talents and enthusiasm to the next level as she leads her team through the cross-country course.

Before her big step into the role as North Atlanta’s girls’ JV cross country coach, Ms. Ferguson had already made a name for herself by teaching math. But before her claim to North Atlanta fame, Ms. Ferguson originally started out teaching in Nashville, Tennessee, for two years before coming to North Atlanta, where she made her mark as a beloved math teacher. “When COVID hit, I had 60 fourth graders on Zoom, so I needed a change, and I went back to grad school at Georgia and got my master’s, then switched to high school math,” said Ms. Ferguson.

Ms. Ferguson has definitely earned her stripes to be qualified as a cross-country coach. Growing up, she ran cross country and track all throughout high school, heightening her love for the sport. She even got the privilege to be on a track and field varsity team for four years with a team of 100 girls.  Before starting to coach at North Atlanta, Ms. Ferguson coached the Girls on the Run, which is a running club with younger girls. She did this with a local elementary school, allowing her to practice her coaching techniques before coming to the high school levels. “Ms. Ferguson is really encouraging and is always checking up on us,” said 10th grader Mary Meihofer.

Things are only looking up this year for the cross-country team. With the new runners becoming more acclimated to their new environment and training regimen, everyone on the team is coming together as one powerhouse team. Not only that, but the cross country team is off to Jacksonville, Florida, for a meet to compete out of state against other teams they wouldn’t normally compete with. “I think she’s a really good coach and she can communicate with us well,” said 11th grader Lucy Stong. “She always offers a helping hand whenever you’re down, and she’s really uplifting and a good role model.”

As the season gets underway, Coach Ferguson is eager to lead her team to victory as they grow stronger with every practice. Even though it’s her first year coaching at North Atlanta, don’t count her out! Ms. Ferguson’s leadership and determination are key to the team’s victory.