New counselor hired at Royal High School

ROYAL CITY - Royal High School has announced the hiring of counselor Mark Kondo, who will be working for the remainder of the school year.

"I am excited and eager to take on this challenge," he said.

Kondo has been involved in education for more than 30 years. He replaces long-time counselor Marge Edwards, who resigned recently.

Kondo began his career in education as an English teacher and guidance counselor in Spokane. He then spent a year teaching in Japan.

Kondo came to the Columbia Basin in 1989 and worked at a private Christian youth ranch. He started working for the Othello School District in 1993 and remained until his retirement in 2009.

Kondo worked as a counselor and also served as the athletic director.

Since retiring, Kondo has worked as a long-term sub for the Othello School District as a teacher and counselor.

"We are lucky to get someone who has as much experience as Mark. I am confident that Mark will do an excellent job." Royal principal Matt Ellis said.

Kondo and his wife Katie have raised two children, both of whom are working in education. Kondo enjoys golf, hunting, and spending time with his three granddaughters.

Kondo has also been involved with wrestling for about 50 years and is a member of the Washington State Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame.