Dean Allen Elementary Namesake

Dean LaMar Allen was born in Las Vegas in 1927 on the historic Kyle Ranch, where he grew up with his parents, sister and two brothers. Mr. Allen attended the Fifth Street Grammar School, Las Vegas High School, and then graduated from Brigham Young University with a major in Zoology. He attained a Masters Degree in Education and received National Science Foundation Scholarships, and afterwards was a U.S. Navy Veteran of World War II. Mr. Allen began teaching in 1952 at Jefferson Elementary. From there he went to J.D. Smith Junior High, Crestwood Elementary, and John C. Fremont Junior High School.

Going the extra mile was Mr. Allen's belief, and he did this with every aspect of his teaching career. He coordinated science fairs, sponsored science clubs, astronomy research, and Saturday field trips to Mt. Charleston, Red Rock, and Lake Mead. He initiated the "hands on" lab programs at Fremont Junior High. He believed that learning was about "doing" and experiencing it yourself. He wanted his students to experience the magic of science, not just read about it from a text book. It was very important for Mr. Allen to be there for any student who needed extra help.

Dean LaMar Allen

He had a strong philosophy in teaching his students that he lived by: "It doesn't matter how intelligent you are, but that you are willing and interested in trying to learn." Because of his teaching capabilities, Mr. Allen served as a Master Teacher and hosted many student teachers.

Outside of teaching, Mr. Allen served in many capacities for the City Recreation Department. He volunteered and served on committees for the local Boy Scouts of America. He was a merit badge counselor for weather, astronomy and gardening. When there was a community project or activity, you didn't have to look far to see him helping out. Mr. Allen assisted with food drives, marched in parades with students, and lead church youth activities.

Dean LaMar Allen retired in 1986 from Fremont Junior High School serving Clark County School District for thirty-four years. He passed away on August 29, 2001. Mr. Allen is loved by many who have crossed his path, and he will be sorely missed.