RANGELY | Mark Skelton has been an integral part of the Rangely School District since August 1984, impacting countless lives through his dedication to education and coaching. His journey with the district began with a simple letter of inquiry, leading to a career spanning four decades.
The Beginning
In early 1984, Skelton expressed his interest in an industrial arts opening at Rangely School District. Following his application submission on Feb. 20, he was invited for an interview with the then-principal William McDaniels on March 16. By April 30, Skelton had signed his first contract, marking the start of his long-standing career in Rangely, Colorado, with an initial salary of $18,777 per year.
Educational Background
Mark Skelton graduated from the University of Wyoming with a bachelor’s degree in industrial arts education for grades seven through 12. In addition to his teaching credentials, he was certified to coach basketball and tennis and teach driver’s education. During his time at the university, he earned a place on the Dean’s List and President’s Honor Roll and received the Paul Stock Foundation Scholarship and the Jay W. Van Dyck Scholarship.
Life in Rangely
When Skelton moved to Rangely, he brought along his wife, Connie, and their two-year-old son, Mark Jr. His resume highlighted his love for golf, tennis, softball, traveling, fishing and, most importantly, working with children.
A Lifelong Dedication to Students
His dedication to working with children is evident in his reflections on his career. He recalls how his natural ability to connect with kids, even those who were challenging, led him to view his work as a gift from God. “Almost every kid I connected with, even the ones who were unsettled, somehow found a way, and we talked or did stuff together,” he said. This connection with students has been a cornerstone of his career.
First-Year Challenges and Growth
His first year in the district was a steep learning curve. Coming straight out of college, he faced the reality of teaching with an incomplete shop classroom, managing classes in a regular room instead. Despite these challenges, Skelton believes this experience laid a strong foundation for his teaching career.
Changes and Consistency
Over the years, he has witnessed numerous changes in the district. He notes that while the fundamental goals of education have remained the same, the influx of new ideas from various teachers and administrators has continually reshaped the district’s landscape. Despite these changes, Skelton emphasizes the importance of maintaining a focus on the students and their individual needs.
Memorable Moments
Mark cherishes the “aha” moments with his students, when they realize their potential and proudly present their projects. One memorable encounter involved a former student who had gone on to become a successful custom furniture builder in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, attributing his career choice to Skelton’s influence.
Challenges and Triumphs
He acknowledges the numerous challenges he faced throughout his career, from adapting to new educational methods to maintaining discipline in the classroom. However, he credits his perseverance and willingness to seek help from others as key factors in overcoming these obstacles.
Advice for New Educators
To new educators, Skelton advises gaining early classroom experience to ensure a genuine passion for teaching. He stresses the importance of staying focused on the students, despite any external challenges, and always being open to learning from others. He also offers a piece of heartfelt wisdom: “Don’t let anger rule you even if you have bad cards dealt to you. Try to have a happy heart.”
Legacy and Impact
Skelton hopes to be remembered as someone who genuinely enjoyed working with children and making a difference in their lives. His dedication, resilience, and ability to connect with students have left an indelible mark on the Rangely School District.
In conclusion, Mark Skelton’s four-decade-long career in education stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to his students and his community. His journey from a young teacher to a seasoned mentor has inspired many and will continue to influence the Rangely School District for years to come.
