Rabjohn retires after 38 years of educating students

Bill Rabjohn

He began his career working as a coach for one year at Cave City, before spending five years at Yellville Summit, where he wore a number of hats coaching in the basketball, baseball and football programs.

In 1977, Rabjohn joined the Rector staff as a junior high basketball coach. Again his role expanded and he became the head basketball coach, assistant and head baseball coach and assistant football coach. In the classroom, he has taught civics, Arkansas history and American history.

Originally from Mountain Home, Rabjohn was aware of Rector and the passion surrounding the school's basketball program from his days as a player.

"We played Rector in basketball during my senior high years, so I knew the quality of basketball they played here. When I heard they had a position opening up, I inquired about the job."

His coaching highlights at Rector included helming the junior high squad to a 25-2 record in 1978-79 and a senior high district championship in 1981.

In 1986, Rabjohn made the transition to the classroom full-time. It was a natural fit.

"I had already been in the classroom for a few periods each day teaching civics and eighth grade history," Rabjohn said. "I enjoyed the classroom. History was something that I have always found interesting."

Rabjohn went the extra mile in trying to approach his students through methods which made learning easier and more enjoyable.

"A lot of my former students remember the videos we watched in class," Rabjohn said. "I've had several students who have come up to me years later and ask if we're still watching certain videos. It was a helpful tool in that it could capture the attention in ways that reading or going over the topics may not always manage to do."

While his roles as teacher and coach may have had their differences, Rabjohn says the rewards were the same.

"Being around the students in the classroom and the players in the gym was always my favorite part about teaching and coaching," Rabjohn said. "You never know what the kids are going to come up with next. That's part of the fun of it. Whether you're teaching a subject like history or how to shoot a basketball, the really good moments and memories come from the interaction with the students."

Rabjohn says he has enjoyed seeing his students grow into adulthood.

"I think one of the biggest rewards has been watching so many of the kids that have played for me or been in my classroom go on to be successful. It's very fulfilling when you see a former student who's gone on and done well in life. You like to think you had a role in a small part of that."

Rabjohn says his time at Rector has been made truly memorable thanks to the other faculty members, administration and staff at the school.

"I've had a chance to work with a lot of really good people. I think that helps in any career, but it really comes through when you're working in education. I'd like to thank everyone who's worked with me over the years for all they've done not just for me, but for our students."

For a man who has made a mark in the lives of so many through his knowledge of the past, what comes next remains a mystery.

"I have no definite plans right now. We'll just have to see what the future brings."