Dr. Elna Davis and the Tarkington ISD Board of Trustees are proud to announce Coach Jake Howard as the district’s new Athletic Director.
Coach Howard is a proud Southeast Texas native, Cleveland High School graduate, United States Army veteran, and Sam Houston State University graduate. He brings 12 years of high school coaching experience and a strong passion for building student-athletes through relationships, accountability, discipline, and growth.
Before beginning his career in education and coaching, Coach Howard served 5½ years in the United States Army as an infantryman, completing two overseas deployments in Ramadi and Baghdad. The leadership, discipline, and resilience developed through his military service continue to shape his approach to coaching, teaching, and mentorship.
Coach Howard earned his bachelor’s degree in History with a minor in Secondary Education from Sam Houston State University. He is a strong advocate for success in the classroom and believes excellence in athletics begins with accountability and growth in education. His dedication to students has also earned him recognition as a Teacher of the Year finalist in previous school districts.
Most recently, Coach Howard was part of a successful program at Willis High School, contributing to a 40–10 record over the past four years, including undefeated district championships, multiple playoff runs, and a state quarterfinal appearance. His coaching experience also includes wrestling, powerlifting, and track, where he has helped develop state champions, qualifiers, medalists, and district championship teams.
Coach Howard and his wife, Mallory, are high school sweethearts and will celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary this August. They have three sons: Jake, Owen, and Lane.
“I’m incredibly honored and humbled for the opportunity to lead Tarkington athletics,” said Coach Howard. “This is a special community, and I’m excited to build something our students and families can be proud of. We’re going to do things the right way, with toughness, discipline, and a commitment to each other. One Herd. One Heart.” Tarkington ISD looks forward to the leadership, vision, and commitment Coach Howard will bring to Longhorn athletics and welcomes him and his family to the Longhorn community.