Father and Son Teach at Mountain Range High School

By Aubrey B. and Adali V.

Mountain Range High School has an inspiring dynamic in its social studies department: a father son duo teaching the same subject. Mr. Jim Mason and his son, Mr. Jacob Mason, bring both experience and a fresh perspective to the classroom, creating a unique environment for students.

Jim Mason, a veteran teacher with 29 years of experience, shares his journey with pride. “I was inspired to become a teacher because I really loved history in high school, and I chose to be a teacher because I wanted to teach the younger generation,” he said.

Over the years, Jim Mason’s teaching philosophy has evolved. He emphasizes critical thinking

and engagement over traditional lectures, stating, "I like my students to drive the classroom. I

like them to discuss stuff and not just sit down looking at a book or reading something”

Reflecting on their shared experiences, Jim Mason recalls how Jacob has: “developed his own teaching style, his own voice, and how he’s been doing things his own way and not just asking me what I'm doing and going on to do the same thing.”

Jim Mason’s pride is evident when discussing the advice he offered Jacob as he began his

teaching career. “The classroom is yours, so make it your own. Establish rules for the classroom but also make it to where it's a place that you hope your students want to come to.”

In his first year of teaching, Jacob Mason follows his father’s footsteps with a passion for

shaping young minds. Growing up with a strong influence from social studies, he recalls, “I

enjoyed being around social studies and loved working with students as well as talking about

history.”

Jacob’s approach is informed by Jim’s philosophy but incorporates modern teaching methods

and technology. “I want to give every kid a chance to be able to at least do the work,” he

explained.

Reflecting on cherished memories from his childhood, Jacob shared his experience with his

father when he was coaching. “Just remembering all the practices and stuff I went to was

always cool. I remember at the end of practice, the players would pick me up and I would dunk the ball.”

As Jacob looks to the future, he has clear goals “Not to be so hard on myself all the time

because mistakes are gonna happen but also as the years go on finding ways to be able to

make lessons that are interactive and engaging for the students.”

Jim and Jacob's colleagues view their collaboration with admiration. Zachary Butte, a Social

Studies and Theatre teacher remarks, “Working with both Jim and Jacob has been great. It’s

interesting to see both perspectives from somebody who just graduated college and somebody who’s been in the profession for over 20 years.”

Learning about their family connection surprised him initially. “I thought it was super neat. I’ve

often taught with colleagues that have been married before, but thinking about the idea that this might be the first time I taught with somebody who also got to teach with their son is just a neat experience.”

When asked about potential challenges, Butte mentioned that he “wondered how much they

both wanted to actually engage with each other.”

Christine Munzer, another fellow social studies teacher, also commented on the benefits of

having both Masons on staff. “I think they work together fabulously. I think that because they’re both in the same subject, they share a lot of materials.”

Ms. Munzer mentioned wondering if Jacob Mason would be “overshadowed by Jim Mason or if he would create his own pathway.”

The Mason legacy at Mountain Range embodies the essence of education: inspiration,

connection, and growth. As Jim and Jacob Mason continue their journey as educators, they not only teach social studies but also model the importance of family, mentorship, and community. Their shared passion and commitment remind us all that teaching is not just a profession, but a meaningful way to shape the future.