2023 Hometown HEROES Magazine LINCOLN DAILY NEWS May 2023 Page 23 By Devyn Fry Heroes don’t always wear capes and masks, but they almost always receive a nickname. Jeff Cooper was often dubbed “Coop” by his students through the years at Lincoln Community High School. He is known to be a fan favorite at the school, with many graduates listing him as their favorite teacher or current students dressing up as him during “Spirit Week.” Whether he was at the front of the classroom or out on the field, everyone knew him as someone who would always assist in any way that he could. Mr. Cooper would give the shirt off of his back to someone any given day- though he might eventually offer to take them clothes shopping! – his “OpenDoor” policy and concern for his students make him a hero in many of their eyes After 23 years at LCHS, Mr. Cooper has made the heavy-hearted, difficult decision to retire. This news was such a shock to me, and to all of the friends that I shared it with. While it is truly sad that future students will not have the opportunity to be a part of his classroom, Mr. Cooper deserves the chance to relax and spend all of his time doing what he loves with those closest to him, whether it be volunteering at community events, family visits, catching crappie, or hosting fish fries. Before teaching, Mr. Cooper was a long-time respiratory therapist. He would work the night shift, and by day take care of his young family. Simultaneously, he managed to receive a bachelor’s in teaching. Mrs. Cooper recalled that Mr. Cooper’s call to teaching came in his thirties, and during his time searching for a teaching position, he was adamant that they had to live in and be a part of the community where he taught. Eventually, Mr. Cooper started off at LCHS as a coach in 1999 first with the baseball team, and later with the football and softball teams. Whilst coaching softball, he had the opportunity to work with his three daughters, Melyssa, Meghan, and Madalyn which was an experience of a lifetime. After about 15 years of coaching, he resigned with an aching yet knowing heart. Mr. Cooper wanted to spend more time with Continued --
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