Reflecting on his career spanning over 40 years as a teacher and administrator at Mather High School, and later his involvement with the Roberts Park Fire Protection District (RPFPD), retirement wasn't about slowing down for Don Fontana; it was about finding new ways to stay engaged and contribute meaningfully to his community and family.
Don’s career started in 1961 when he began teaching Physical Education and Health at Mather. He was also the assistant coach and defensive coordinator of Mather’s first football team, speaking proudly about helping lead the team to victory in their first ever game.
Don’s role evolved into an administrative position, overseeing security and supporting teachers while also educating them on classroom safety. In 1974, when the Heimlich Maneuver was invented, Don ensured that all Mather faculty and staff were certified. His passion for safety extended beyond the classroom when he became a certified Driver's Education Instructor and later joined RPFPD. Within this role, Don identified additional measures to enhance safety at Mather, such as reevaluating the school's approach to fire drills to account for a broader range of scenarios that could happen during a fire.