Educational interpreter coordinator Mark Howdieshell is retiring after 36 years in the district. 

Howdieshell grew up in Dayton, Ohio, and went on quite a journey before landing a job with Beachwood. He went to college, traveled, worked other jobs and did military service.  

Howdieshell has worked at every school in Beachwood, spreading his passion for American Sign Language and helping kids of all ages.   

“My primary role is interpreting for our deaf students in the classroom and any extracurricular situation,” he said. “I am also in charge of getting a sub if an interpreter is absent.” 

Howdieshell has also found joy in announcing Bison sporting events. 

“I announce most of the sports in Beachwood, but it started when I was just a quick fill in for the person announcing for the band,” he said. “From there, over the years I just picked up most of the sports.” 

On top of interpreting around the district, Howdieshell has coached track and cross country at the high school, and was the assistant volleyball coach one year. He also worked for the Beachwood recreation department for a couple years teaching ASL. 

Howdieshell has enjoyed working in Beachwood.

“Working with all the kids, and just the environment itself was special,” he said. 

The message he would like to leave to his colleagues and students is as follows:

“For my colleagues, thanks for all the support. Keep doing what you’re doing,” he said. “For the students, be yourself, don’t let anyone convince you to be anybody else. Work hard, and do what you want to do in life.” 

Howdieshell’s passion for ASL and sports announcing will be hard to replace. 

“I’ve really found a home here, and I feel blessed to be a part of the community,” he said.