Master Chief James Coltrain joined our NJROTC program as the new Naval Science Instructor earlier this year in September. Joining Senior Naval Science Instructor, Chief Warrant Officer Rocky Hulse, Coltrain is now teaching all Naval Science I and Naval Science II classes.

After retiring from the U.S. Navy, Coltrain worked in several high schools across the country including Sanger HS (Sanger, CA), Ed W. Clark HS (Las Vegas,NV) and Salem HS (Virginia Beach,VA).

“The Austin area attracted me,” Coltrain said. “And I chose VRHS because of this outstanding position. I love the atmosphere of belonging and friendship at Vista Ridge.”

He says that the warm welcome he’s received by the staff is one of the wonderful experiences he’s had so far. However the moving process didn’t go as smoothly as planned.

“It was a like blur for about three or four weeks. I got here on a Friday, had staff orientation, then work on Monday,” Coltrain said. “Then, my belongings didn’t show up for 20 days.”

Even while still adjusting to his new home, there is an upside to the troubles of moving. Coltrain explained how he has had a beautiful experience at our NJROTC program.

“It’s been wonderful to become part of the high status that Rocky Hulse has achieved,” Coltrain said.

Coltrain couldn’t be more proud to be a Ranger. Teaching is something Coltrain appreciates. He has been given the opportunity to be able to teach students valuable lessons that they can take through the rest of their lives and into their careers.

“After I left the Navy, beleive it or not, an inner drive to give something back to the community and society propelled me to become a teacher,” Coltrain said.

“My message of advice to students at being successful in school and just life in general,  from my experience in the Navy and teaching, would be to stay awake and continue to observe all that is occurring around you,” Coltrain said. “And finally, learn, learn, learn.”