Santa Maria High School teacher and baseball coach retires after 34 years

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District announced that a combination teacher and baseball coach retired on Friday after 34 years at Santa Maria High School (SMHS).

Dana Dowell began his career at the high school while looking for a job that involved teaching science and coaching sports.

Before his time at SMHS, however, Dowell served as the Saint In School Intervention Coordinator, attended and played baseball for Righetti High School, Allan Hancock College and Cal Poly University.

Dowell, who graduated from Righetti High School, began teaching in 1986.

“There are always ups and downs with any career,’’ said Dowell. “It has been a rewarding career where I made life-long friendships with students and staff. I think many people underestimate what it takes to be a high school teacher. It is not an 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. job. It has been a great experience.’’

SMHS principal Steve Campbell and assistant principal Ivan Diaz thanked Dowell for his outstanding service.

“For 34 years as a teacher and baseball coach, and a Santa Maria Saint, whenever we needed a right-hander to come in from the bullpen, Dana answered the call,’’ Campbell said. “We will all miss Dana around here.’’

Dowell said he is planning to use his retirement to fish more, attend spring training and spend more time with his two sons and wife.