This summer, Independence was left with what appeared to be several empty job positions.

Michelle Tucker left the roles of a teen leadership teacher and a varsity volleyball coach empty for the 2016-2017 school year. The positions were filled by Ms. Shannon Phillips who is coming to us from Stafford Middle School.

“If no one told me she coached middle school I would never know,” varsity volleyball player Jordyn Carswell said.

“I went to middle school cause it was a better family life balance but the opportunity presented itself to stay in district and get back competing with high level volleyball,” Coach Phillips said.

Not only has she coached middle school and high school, but she also played and coached at the college level too.

“I played at Louisiana Tech University. I played all four years there and competed in the Western Athletic Conference…I’ve…previously coached collegiately,” Coach Phillips said.

Her passion started even before college.

“It’s a sport that I’ve always been passionate about since high school…It’s an exciting sport to watch and play and so I wanted…to stay connected to the sport and have a positive impact on young ladies’ lives,” Coach Phillips said.

“When I get frustrated I have her to turn to and she’s like, ‘It’s okay, don’t worry about it, just get the next ball,’” varsity volleyball player Kayla Parker said.

She’s glad to be back at the elite level starting her first year with these new relationships.

“Getting to talk more strategy and be competitive at the high school level is where my heart is,” Coach Phillips said.