The Absent Uncle: Mr. Sletten

It was brought to my attention by another classmate of the 1969 graduating class of Marshall High School (Minn.) that a teacher and coach had passed away.

It got me to thinking about Mr. Sletten and his effect on my education and outlook going forward. 

Mr. Sletten taught history and social studies to 10th and 11th graders. I had him in the 10th grade and I will never forget his speech about becoming “students” instead of “pupils”. Pretty profound difference. Students study, students think, students push the boundaries of what they have learned. Pupils only survive.

He encouraged us to read about and discuss current events. He strongly urged reading a daily newspaper and/or a weekly periodical. I began my subscription to Time Magazine at his urging. His class was daily and he took at least one day a week to quiz us on current events and lead a discussion of issues – local, national, international. All were important and he showed how citizens have a responsibility to be “in the know”. I absolutely loved that class.

Now the other side of him. As a wrestling coach, I was told he was a tough guy: a “Sargent Sletten; a great wrestling coach, supportive of his athletes, and probably the person who would push you over the (or foe) precipice that was in front of you.

We were fortunate to have a great educator and a coach. So similar to Coach Bob Young from the Brandon Valley area who passed away in the past month that you had in your midst. 

People like them are those that are character builders; they push you a bit further than you knew you could go or even imagined the new horizon. Not just athletes; but scholars and citizens. RIP Mr. Sletten, Coach Bob Young. You done good.