Howdy! My name is Rick Higginbotham, along with my best buddies, Petey and Dodger, and I am beginning my 13th year as an instructor here at White Oak High School. It’s my 31st year in education. I worked here previously from 1999-2004 and really enjoyed my “formative” White Oak years.  And, even though I’ve taught in other school districts since then, there’s a reason I’m back. What can I say? I’m a Roughneck

I’m a man whose biggest dream has come true. I got to marry the love of my life. Never thought that would happen in a million years. But God smiled on me!  I’m also on the receiving end of one of the sweetest words ever spoken…Daddy. I have the most exquisite, lovely daughter……and she and my son-in-law have given us an amazing granddaughter and grandson, who both call me Papa (What a JOY!).

We are also surrounded by beloved pets. We have two dog at present, Scout and Suzy, who are great additions to our family. Our six cats also keep us pretty busy….Gabby, Gable, Sachmo, Sasha, Allie, and Jojo. And we embrace precious and prized memories of our very special angels…our sweet, wonderful Jake…our 18 year-old, beautiful cat, Sateen…and my BEST pals ever….Petey, Dodger, and Lincoln…all of whom were blessings to our lives and are missed so dearly. Right now, they’re having the time of their lives up on Rainbow Bridge and we can’t wait to see them again!

I’m a HUGE outdoors lover, too.  As a matter-of-fact, my wife and I hiked our very first 14’er summer a number of summers ago…..14,065 foot Mount Bierstadt in the Colorado Rockies (yes, she DID beat me to the top!). Sports are something I enjoy, as well, including high school and college football.  Favorite place to hang out?  That’s an easy one…..with my wife.

Alright, alright….enough about me.  Hey, I’m lookin’ forward to a FUN 2025-26. Just consider me another blessed guy who gets to  “Defend the Derrick” for another year. Go Roughnecks!