Celebrating Mr. Massey as he heads toward retirement

Dayle Massey, longtime science and math teacher, cross-country coach, and advisor to retire after 26 years at Cascade High School. Photo courtesy of Parson Photography

For the past 26 years, Dayle Massey has been a cornerstone of Cascade High School, leaving an indelible mark as a dedicated science and math teacher, a highly successful cross-country coach, the guiding force behind the Knowledge Bowl team, and a committed advisor to student organizations like the Sustainability Club.  

As he embarks on a well-deserved retirement, the CHS community is reflecting on the lasting influence he has had on countless students, athletes, and on the very fabric of the school. First a science teacher, and later a science and math teacher, Massey instilled a love for learning and prepared countless students for future success in higher education and demanding careers.  

Reflecting on his tenure, Massey shared that “there have been so many rewarding times when students do well, ‘get it,’ and go on to college and success. It’s nice to think that I had a small part in that, particularly when kids go on to study one of the subjects I taught, like physics. And then, of course, it’s also rewarding when the academic and athletic teams and kids do well.” 

As he implied, Massey’s dedication extended far beyond the classroom walls. Taking the helm of the Kodiak cross country program in 2010 with just a dozen runners, he built it into a respected and successful regional powerhouse, consistently fielding teams of thirty or more. His impact was on full display at the most recent Washington State Championships where he motivated both the boys’ and girls’ teams to exceed expectations in his final outing. The lady Kodiaks, ranked ninth, secured seventh place and the boys’ team, entering the competition ranked 17th, surged to a tenth-place finish. 

Running Start senior, and four-year member of the CHS cross-country team, Alice Farrell reflected on Massey’s coaching at the end of the season last fall: “I like his relaxed coaching style. He doesn’t put a lot of pressure on us, which makes running easier, I think. At the same time, he’s very encouraging, a great cheerleader, and creates a good team dynamic. He made us feel less like we were competing against each other than running as a team. He stressed health and happiness over all else. I’ve never regretted going to a practice.” 

Massey’s leadership indoors with the Knowledge Bowl team also led to remarkable feats, including multiple consecutive state appearances and a state and national championship, showcasing his broad intellectual curiosity and his ability to inspire academic achievement in diverse fields. And his commitment to environmental awareness as the advisor for the Sustainability Club demonstrated his dedication to fostering responsible, engaged citizens. 

The depth of Massey’s impact is perhaps best reflected in the sentiments of his students: the numerous yearbook senior quotes over the years referencing Massey, the cross country team’s long, planned, creative – if not slightly offbeat - tribute of dressing up as him for senior posters, and the team-made t-shirts featuring his likeness all serve as powerful testaments to the deep connections he forged.  

Significantly, his name is almost always mentioned by his students with a wry smile, revealing the warmth and infectious passion he exudes. “He tells some pretty quirky, funny stories in class,” recalls CHS ASB President and senior Ethan Flansburg. “Those stories always held a life lesson though. And, as humorous as he could be, he also gave me the confidence to succeed in math . . . oh, and he also had a habit of comparing me to older members of my family that he taught, saying things like: ‘Ethan, you act just like your uncle.’ That’s probably unique.” 

In short, Dayle Massey is one of a kind. He has affected generations of Cascade High School students, shaping them into not only skilled athletes and successful students but also resilient and well-rounded individuals. “I think there are certain basic, but important life skills, that students should have, like being on time, having your work done, and being prepared,” reflected Massey. “I try to set an example for them and don’t berate kids when they’re not, though, because it can take time to develop those skills. You plant the seeds now and later it can help kids to grow.” 

"I’m really going to miss all the relationships and teaching and learning with the kids,” said Massey.

When asked what has been most special to him about CHS, Massey replied: “It’s been great teaching in a small community where most people like to live and are happy to be. You know, I’ve taught the parents of many of my current students, which is really fun. I just think CHS is a friendly and comfortable place and that students feel comfortable in the school and like being at the school. This high school’s staff have great relationships amongst each other, and the staff and students really care about each other. I’m really going to miss all the relationships and teaching and learning with the kids.” 

The halls and grounds of CHS are undeniably better because of Massey’s unwavering dedication, his infectious passion, and his deep commitment to the students he served. While he will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.