A principal of principles

Charlie Akers was a principal with great principles at all levels of education in the Mat-Su Borough Schools. He hired me for my first teaching position as a 3rd Grade Teacher at Iditarod Elementary which also included 7th & 8th grade Jr. High students. With a primary certification in Physical Education, I was given the Jr. High boys’ basketball coaching position. Charlie’s accomplishments and background as an Olympic athlete led him to seek maximum opportunity for students.

His philosophy in education was a package that enhanced the mental when the physical and social aspects were furthered through extra-curricular programs.

He recognized that students needed to be physically fit and sports being a medium to help accomplish this while providing positive direction. It was an avenue that gave many purpose, outlet and success that carried over into their academics.

Charlie was supportive and found funds when I wanted to start a gymnastics program. During my third year of teaching I became the PE teacher for grades 2-8. The following year was 1976. Wasilla was the fastest growing city in the United States on this Bi-Centennial of our nation. Wasilla High School students moved into a new building to accommodate the increasing number of students moving to the Mat-Su Valley. The old high school became the Jr. High School for grades 7 and 8. Charlie became the principal of Wasilla Jr. High and I was the boys physical education instructor. The next few years saw record growth in student numbers. Under Charlie, full-fledged competitive extra-curricular programs in boys and girls gymnastics, wrestling, volleyball cross country and track & field were added.

We outgrew the old high school facility, so when it was renovated and more than doubled in size, Charlie was instrumental in seeing that an outstanding facility was developed in conjunction with teachers’ input. The result was considered at the time to be “state of the art!” It was a great place to be a student and teacher. Charlie believed in discipline and even had a paddle or two; using them sparingly and offering alternatives when possible. He was a proponent of second chances. In some of the most difficult students, he tried to get them interested in extra-curricular activities to direct their energies and exert positive influence on their behavior. As a coach of many of the sports, he personally came to me and made exceptions for some students in an effort to redirect them.

I was not always enthusiastic in carrying some of these individuals, but Charlie had a heart for students struggling; an admirable quality in an educator. His fair approach to student discipline was who he was. He was a down to earth leader. He worked with teachers, not above them.

Many school activities, such as assemblies and fund raising projects, were held to create interest, bring teachers and students together in a fun environment as well as make money to provide extra equipment for classes.

Charlie often drove teams to many events, saving our school money for a bus driver and at the same time developing a close relationship with students and teachers or coaches. He was involved far beyond his job description, and that earned him respect.

Charlie got a lot out of students and teachers because of the way he treated them and went out of his way for them. School then started the day after Labor Day in September. Twice I missed the first day of school because I was late returning from a sheep hunt. Charlie simply covered my classes for me. I get a lump in my throat recalling his devotion and his no-fuss way he approached situations.

He did not get excited. He was more like family and his actions motivated many staff members to give their very best and go that extra mile as well. He led by example, creating in those he touched an appreciation and willingness to go to battle with or for him if necessary.

It is with regret that I was unable to attend Charlie’s celebration of life. My wife represented us and said many good and positive things were said by those he touched. I would feel remiss if I didn’t add to those stories. I have many more than related briefly here and space will not allow, but I carry them as a living testament as to how great a person Charlie was, the tremendous influence he had on me and the huge difference he made in my life, career and effectiveness as a teacher. Charlie was a special individual, a great friend and touched many lives.

We should all aspire to leave such a legacy!