Most people associated with Clarkston Community Schools know the name Mel Vaara. With over 50 years of service to the district and the community, it would be difficult to find someone who did not know Vaara personally or someone he helped in his time here.
With such thoughts in mind, the school board held a dedication ceremony at the Oct. 11 board meeting. Vaara’s name became a permanent fixture at Sashabaw Middle School, with the school’s gymnasium named in his honor.
‘I think it’s safe to say Mel has had a very positive impact on our community. There is no more vigorous supporter of our schools than Mel Vaara,? said Superintendent Dr. Al Roberts.
Vaara came to the Clarkston school district in 1955 as a sixth-grade math teacher. Over the years, he held many other titles including Clarkston High School principal (twice), junior high school principal, math and physics teacher, basketball, track, and cross country coach, and assistant superintendent. Outside of the school district, Vaara has played an active role in community programs, including SCAMP and Optimists.
‘Mel is truly a unique individual and he has been an asset to Clarkston schools for many years,? said Roberts.
SMS Principal Linda Foran, along with assistant principals April Weist and Brett McCall, also presented Vaara with a humorous surprise, announcing that week that the school would be celebrating ‘Mel Vaara Day,? a day dedicated to learning about Vaara’s many contributions to the district and community. The trio then revealed their T-shirts, which featured Vaara’s face and information about Mel Vaara Day.
Upon accepting the honor, Vaara immediately turned the attention to others, starting by saying ‘how ’bout those Tigers??
Initially recounting his first journey from the Upper Pennisula to Clarkston in a time where there was no such thing as I-75, Vaara spoke about his many experiences in the community and thanked all those with whom he has worked over time.
Vaara also took the time to introduce his family, including several of his grandchildren who were in attendance, to the audience.
In closing, Vaara said ‘I appreciate this honor very much,? before leaving the board room with family and friends to attend a reception.