Jack Dehring Honored for Service to Island School
By Leslie Rott

Members of the Dehring family are (back row, from left) Sarah Dehring, Jack Dehring, and Debbie Klos; (front) Dorothy and Jack.

"It was a great combination, Jack Dehring and Mackinac Island," said Bill Krieger, who was superintendent of Mackinac Island Public School from 1970 until 1974 and hired Mr. Dehring to teach on Mackinac Island.

Family, friends, and members of the community gathered at a party that was held in the multipurpose room of Mackinac Island Public School Saturday, June 17, to honor the service of Mr. Dehring, who will retire as superintendent Friday, July 1.

"We're here to honor a fellow that, when he came to Mackinac Island, he was a good deal younger," joked Mr. Krieger. "I want to thank Jack Dehring for making this school the wonderful place it is."

Mr. Krieger shared several nicknames that have been attached to Mr. Dehring over the years. First it was Ichabod, after Ichabod Crane from "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," then it became Mr. Ick, and finally, Mr. Dehring, sir.

Family friend David Latva of St. Ignace said his first impression of the new science teacher at Mackinac Island 34 years ago was that he wouldn't make it through the year.

"I've seen a lot of changes and they've all been for the good," Jack Dehring told the attendees. "It was never about me, it was what we could do... It's all about the kids."

Although Mr. Dehring has no definite plans for his retirement, he assured the community that he will still be around.

"He'll never quit teaching or being valuable to his students," said school board member Paul Wandrie. The board presented Mr. Dehring with a letter jacket and pin for his service.

A bucket of golf balls was also presented, with balls autographed by guests at the party.

Mr. Dehring has a long history at Mackinac Island Public School. Aside from 34 years of service as teacher, principal, and superintendent, he married a former student and his children went to school here.

"I think the kids have always respected Mr. Dehring, as he is fair and helpful. I believe Jack is and always will be a great teacher to everybody and has the best interest of the kids first," Dorothy Dehring said of her husband.