Teacher Spotlight: E’Jay Ward
Chattanooga, TN- For the past seven years, Coach E’Jay Ward has been a supportive and inspiring presence at Tyner Academy. First hired as Dean of Students and boy’s basketball coach, Ward has since transitioned into teaching P.E. and wellness while continuing to lead the Rams on the court. His impact reaches far beyond the gym, touching students’ lives throughout the school.
A proud graduate of Brainerd High School, Ward’s career has come full circle. He now gets to work in the communities he grew up in. “I’m from the same place these students are from,” Ward said. “A lot of these kids are my neighbors. I went to school with their parents. It makes me more relatable.”
Before coming to Tyner, Ward taught at East Lake Academy in 2013 and served as the head basketball coach there while also assisting with the boy’s basketball team at Brainerd High School. His own playing career included football at Ware Prep Academy, Northwest Community College, and Southern University before switching sports and finishing his collegiate athletic journey playing basketball at Tennessee Wesleyan University, where he earned his degree in 2013.
For Ward, teaching and coaching were always the dream.
"This job is something very fitting and authentic for me. I couldn't see myself doing anything else.”
That authenticity shows in how he connects with students — athletes and non-athletes alike. “Of course, basketball is one of my favorite parts,” he said, “but just engaging with all students … that day-to-day interaction, that’s really rewarding.”
Under Ward’s leadership, the 2024 season was historic for Tyner basketball: 29 wins, a trip to the Final Four, and championships at the district, region, and substate levels. His efforts earned him the Chattanooga Times Free Press Coach of the Year honor for the second time.
This season was also significant as he had the opportunity to coach his nephew, Kohl Ward—a meaningful addition to his already purpose-driven career.
Despite the accolades, his greatest reward is watching his students grow. “It’s probably one of the greatest feelings, seeing a student from freshman year, seeing where they start, and then getting to see where they finish,” Ward said. “You watch them go off to school, get that college scholarship to play, further their education or athletics, and then see those kids come back after they graduate from college and tell you how much you meant to them and how much you inspired them within these four years. It means a lot.”
When asked about his time with Tyner, Ward answered without hesitation: “Oh, it’s been a wonderful experience. I love the kids. I love the community. I love everything about Tyner.”
Coach E’Jay Ward continues to serve as a coach, teacher, mentor, and role model. His passion and authenticity will leave a lasting impact on the Tyner community.
Thank you, Coach Ward, for all you do!