Update No. 139
This message is dedicated to Jarrod Mason and Robert “Bob” Gordon – two incredible educators who were laid to rest last week. They are deep losses for their families and our school community. The outpouring of sympathy and condolences from the greater Hamilton Heights community and beyond speak volumes about who they were, their impact, and what they meant to our community.
Jarrod, a 1994 graduate of Hamilton Heights High School, served as the high school principal since 2008. Bob, a 1957 graduate of Walnut Grove High School, served as principal of Hamilton Heights Elementary School from 1989 to 2001.
Jarrod, who returned to his alma mater to make a difference, did just that. He created an exemplary learning community that maximized every student’s success, worked to empower teachers to be facilitators, leaders, and coaches, and cultivated a positive school climate that was inviting and safe for everyone. He was deeply admired by friends and colleagues alike. Though his time with us was much too short, his legacy of building strong relationships and championing initiatives that enhance the school experience lives on.
Bob was blessed with a long and fulfilling life. With a gentle demeanor, quiet strength, and sage advice, he was a mentor to many and a cherished friend to all. He enjoyed a long, distinguished, and respected career in public education that spanned four decades and over 20 more active retirement years. His effectiveness in his role as an educator and principal stemmed from the personal guidelines by which he lived. He treated everyone with respect, saw the good in each individual, created the best learning environment for every child, and encouraged everyone (students and staff) to realize their potential.
Bob and Jarrod were not only great leaders, they were wonderful humans who made a profound impact within our small school district. Their unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive, inspiring, and challenging learning environment in their buildings had a transformative effect on students and staff alike. Each made a difference through their leadership and tireless advocacy for student success. Each cultivated a legacy of excellence, compassion, and resilience that will continue to inspire and shape our school district for generations to come.
As we gather for the Thanksgiving holiday next week, may we find strength and comfort in our cherished memories of Jarrod and Bob and the legacy they left. It was a privilege to know them both. We are forever grateful they chose Hamilton Heights. By following in their footsteps, we can honor their legacy and ensure that their vision of a brighter future, where every student can flourish and find success at Heights, lives on.
Let us hold tight that feeling of gratitude to help us navigate both the joys and the sorrows of life’s journey. Thank you Jarrod and Bob, you did good.
#WeAreHuskies