Chuck Keisel leaves a lasting legacy with Coeur d'Alene School District

Chuck Keisel wore a safety officer uniform for seven and a half years at Coeur d’Alene High School. But over time he became an educator and, for some students, a trusted confidante.

When Keisel became Coeur d'Alene Public Schools' first safety officer, there was no handbook for the position, just two sheets of paper outlining the basic duties of the job. They didn't mention helping teenagers navigate some of life's toughest challenges.

“It has been super rewarding to make sure the kids are safe,” said Keisel. “I have been able to build relationships with the kids. I have helped them with their homework or helped them understand life is life and it will always be unpredictable and uncertain at times. Once they trust you enough, they will come and talk to you about personal things.”

Keisel retired from CHS this month after serving for 7 ½ years, leaving behind a safety program that has grown to four safety officers and a legacy defined by vigilance, service and relationships with students. Security officers in the district are funded through the school levy and play an important role in creating a culture of safety.

“Chuck is a great guy,” said Coeur d’Alene Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Shon Hocker. “We are grateful for his service to our education community and wish him the best in retirement. We’re going to miss him.”

From a safety standpoint, Keisel said vigilance has been essential to protecting students.

“We’ve been able to avoid the scary things from happening,” he said. “You learn to watch for and recognize people who don’t belong in the school. I am grateful that one of us has always been there to make sure the kids are safe. One of the most rewarding things is being able to help the kids.”

Before joining the district, Keisel served 25 years in the United States Air Force, retiring as a master sergeant. He spent time in South Korea as a weapons safety officer and worked alongside members of other military branches at the highest levels.

Following his military career, Keisel worked for Cabela’s as a regional manager, focusing on store safety and helping open new stores across the country. He and his wife, Shelly, have been married for 44 years and have two children and five grandchildren. Their daughter lives in Coeur d’Alene, and their grandchildren attend Lake City High School.

As he begins retirement, Keisel plans to spend more time traveling, camping, fishing and exploring.

Being the district’s first safety officer allowed Keisel to help define the role and set the standard for those who followed. Today, Coeur d’Alene Public Schools employs four safety officers — two at Coeur d’Alene High School and two at Lake City High School.

Looking back on his career, Keisel said the relationships he built with students and staff stand out as the most rewarding part of the job. Chuck’s contributions to the school culture extended beyond safety. He also served as a substitute teacher at CHS, teaching leadership and music classes.

“I have always made a point to learn their names,” he said. “That means a lot to kids. I remember what it was like to be a kid and I know how hard it can be.”

His legacy at CHS is secure.

“Few people have invested in the culture of CHS the way Chuck has. He understands that schools are built on relationships and he never hesitated to put himself out there whether with a guitar in hand, dressed for a spirit day, or simply showing up with enthusiasm and authenticity to help students and staff feel connected,” said CHS Principal Victoria Beecher.

“While retirement marks the end of one chapter, it certainly isn't goodbye. We expect to see him announcing softball games, helping with some substitute Campus Safety Officer coverage and continuing to support CHS in the ways he always has. His impact on our culture will be felt for years to come, and we're grateful he'll always be part of the Viking family."