Whether in the classroom or on the field, John Miller, Sr. was always an educator.
A 1952 graduate of Louisiana College, Miller spent 40 years as a coach and teacher, with 38 of those years in Rapides Parish at Oak Hill. Miller taught biology, chemistry, physical science and physical education to three generations of students before retiring in 1994.
He began the first cross-country team in Rapides Parish, and his team was named the Cross Country State Champion in 1969 and 1970. They were runner-ups for six years. During the 25 years that he coached cross-country, his teams were District Champions 21 of those years.
Oak Hill's Track and Field teams coached by Miller were District Champs 31 years and Regional Champs for 24 years.
His excellence was recognized by the National High School Athletic Coaches Association in 1990 when he was nominated for the National Coach of the Year Award. Finishing as one of eight finalists, he was named the Regional Coach of the Year.
Miller's work in the classroom was equally exceptional. He worked with science fairs at the local, regional, and state levels and had students attend the State Science Fair each year he taught.
Miller is a member of Pisgah Baptist Church in Forest Hill and is active as a deacon and Sunday School teacher. He has participated in mission trips to Belize, North Dakota, and South Louisiana.
The Wildcat Athletic Association proudly inducted John Miller, Sr. into the Louisiana College Sports Hall of Fame on February 17, 1995.
