Former Sonora Education Leader Passes Away
Sonora, CA — Longtime Tuolumne County education leader Dario Cassina has passed away at the age of 90.
Cassina started teaching at Sonora Elementary School in the 1940’s, and was later elected Tuolumne County Superintendent of Schools. He was asked to help create the county’s first continuation high school in the 1960’s. Years after he retired, it was renamed Dario Cassina High School.
“He was a kind, wonderful, caring man,” says Jim Roeber, Cassina High School Principal. “We’re proud of his name, and we do everything we can to make this a good school.”
After Cassina’s retirement, Roeber says he remained interested in the school and would make occasional visits. He remembers introducing Cassina to a student on campus one time, and says she was shocked and amazed to be in the presence of the school’s namesake. Roeber says Cassina also “got a kick” out of her reaction.
Many also remember Cassina for his commitment and dedication to music programs in the community. He had taught music while at Sonora Elementary School, and was an advocate for music education after retiring.
Funeral services for Cassina are pending. He passed away on Wednesday at his Sonora residence.
