Meet Kwajalein (Griffin) Clack AKA Coach Kwad, Head Track and Field Coach

In celebration of Black History Month, the Garfield PTSA reached out to Garfield’s awesome Black and African American teachers and staff with a few questions – e.g. favorite part of your job, what do you like to do for fun, and reflections on Black History Month.

I’m a Bulldog for Life I graduated from Garfield in 84’!!!!!  I’ve been working as a Head Coach of Track and Field for Garfield since 2011, coached JVC girls soccer for 3 years, coached JV & JVC girls basketball teams since 2017, and as a School Safety and Security Specialist at GHS since 2016.  I was a 3 sport athlete and competed in Softball, Basketball, and Track and Field.  While competing in Track and Field I was a part of the start of a State Championship Dynasty (81-86). I went on to compete in T & F at the University of Oregon.

My favorite part of my job are the students and staff.  I love interacting with everyone, being a support when needed, seeing their smiles, cracking jokes, sharing highs and lows. The most important part of my job is the students and their wellbeing. I’m a mentor to a few students, a resource, a confidant, and a Coach Kwad to many. These young people keep me young!!!!

I love dancing, hanging with friends and family, travelling, reading, and sports.

Black Lives Matter was seen in a lot of different ways from all walks of life. I feel we all have to be willing to be a part of the change, to show compassion, to let go of our stereotypes, to be willing to communicate openly amongst one another, but most of all truly show love towards each other.