Ranells steps down from WSD post

SILVERTON — “I’m not calling it retirement, just repurposing.”

For the past 13 years, Dr. Bob Ranells has been the steady hand at the helm of the Wallace School District and now as the school year officially wraps up, Shoshone County’s favorite combination superintendent/football referee has stepped down from his post.

Ranells knew that he wanted to be an educator when he was in junior high school.

“I had clicked with a couple of coaches and teachers that I had in junior high and I just knew,” Ranells said. “When I got to high school and the teachers there knew of my intentions to be a teacher, when they needed a substitute at the lower levels they’d send me out.”

A unique blend of confidence, charisma and just a touch of charm, Ranells made his way through many school districts before landing in Wallace, but his impact here won’t be soon forgotten.

Ranells came to the district shortly after the completion of the new Wallace Jr./Sr. High School, during a time where the financial situation for many of the local districts was riding high and SRS funds kept the schools comfortable.

But, like all things, the schools struggled following the 2008 recession, but Ranells was there with his steady and encouraging demeanor to guide the way.

Between passing levies and handling various disputes, Ranells always made sure that he kept his focus.

“It’s about the kids,” Ranells said. “Everyday is a favorite memory here for me. Watching the kids grow up and excel. The future is bright.”

Former Silver Hills Elementary Principal Todd Howard has been hired by the district to fill Ranells’ shoes, and Brooke Miller will step into Howard’s old post at SHES.

Ranells is excited to watch both of the administrators work in their new roles and has the utmost faith in their abilities.

“I think the district is in excellent shape,” Ranells said. “Our people have taken great pride in supporting our schools, even in the most difficult of times they step up. I keep telling Todd, ‘just don’t mess it up.’ Our focus hasn’t changed. It’s all about student learning. They’re going to do what’s best for kids and they’ll be just fine.”

As an educator of 47 years, the future isn’t quite clear, although that really isn’t an issue for Ranells, who could call it a career if he wanted to — or might find another project that piques his interest.

“This place is heaven, my wife and I absolutely love it and we’re in no hurry to leave,” Ranells said. “But who knows, there’s plenty of options out there and we’ll see what happens. I’m not calling it retirement, just repurposing.”