Special to the HT
RANGELY | For over four decades, Mary Lansing has been a cornerstone of the Rangely School District, dedicating herself to students, staff, and the community. Her 44-year career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to education, growth, and making a difference in the lives of countless individuals.
Mary’s path to Rangely began with her husband, Tom Suchar, a lifelong resident, but it was her first job in the district, and raising their two children, John and Jane, that truly rooted her in the community. From her early days as a second-grade teacher to her later roles as a principal, acting superintendent, and district Curriculum and Assessment Coordinator, Mary embraced each challenge with passion and purpose. She credits the mentorship of her co-teacher, Wanita Ott, and the support of her family and many educators along the way for shaping her professional journey.
Her deep understanding of curriculum and instruction, coupled with a love for lifelong learning, made her an invaluable leader. Under her guidance, teachers found themselves immersed in meaningful conversations about instructional practices, setting a tone of collaboration and continuous improvement. As principal, she cultivated a culture where discussions in the teacher’s lounge centered on pedagogy and strategies to better serve students, rather than distractions or complaints.
Throughout her career, Mary witnessed the evolution of educational tools and technology, moving from the days of ditto machines to the integration of Promethean boards and digital learning. Yet, it was her focus on building relationships with students, families, and the community that remained her hallmark.
A highlight of her journey was leading a fifth-grade science collaboration with National Geographic, engaging students in a study of acid rain. While the project sparked a lively public debate, it ultimately showcased Mary’s dedication to real-world learning experiences.
Despite officially retiring in 2011, Mary’s passion continued to keep her involved in education. She continued to serve the district in various capacities, including as an assessment coordinator and curriculum developer. “I was retired, but I wasn’t done,” she joked. Her resilience and determination kept her deeply connected to the heart of Rangely’s educational mission.
When reflecting on her career, Mary humbly stated, “I don’t care if they remember my time. I care that they remember what’s important to good education: the students, their social-emotional health, their academic growth, and their view of lifelong learning.”
As she steps back to reflect on her years of service, Mary Lansing leaves a legacy not just of professional excellence but of compassion, mentorship, and a profound belief in the power of education. The Rangely School District and the entire community are better because of her tireless dedication.
