Morton Dickson IIIWhen Morton Dickson III interviewed at Woodland Park High School over 30 years ago, it was for the instrumental teaching position. That position went to someone else.
How fortunate, though, that the person who interviewed Dickson III saw a teacher they wanted in the school and hired him as a vocal music teacher.
His 34-year teaching career at WPHS is one of legendary status. Eighty-three of his vocal students went on to be selected for All-State choir, including 10 in 2000 alone.
Many of his groups have been selected to perform at the annual Colorado Music Educators Association’s Annual Conference. He also had groups perform at Carnegie Hall (1995), for the Colorado State Legislature (1998) and other prestigious organizations have heard his groups perform, as well.
His choirs have been consistent performers in the CHSAA Large Group Festivals and have a record of success to be envied by all. Since 1983, and except for the 1995 and 1997 festivals which were snowed out, WPHS has entered 68 choirs in the festivals. Sixty-two of those choirs earned the highest ratings given and the other six earned the next highest.
Throughout his career, Dickson III has garnered numerous accolades and was nominated for the 2003 Colorado Teacher of the Year. WPHS named him Teacher of the Year on several occasions, as well.
A native of Pueblo and a South High School graduate, Dickson III also judges the CHSAA Large Group Festivals each year.
He started his teaching career at Pueblo County High School where he was the instrumental music teacher.
Getting back to the band interview at WPHS, Dickson III ultimately taught band for 10 years at the school, sending students as participants in All-State Band for seven of those years.
Dickson III is a master teacher, there’s no doubt.
