Approaching the end of his 42nd year at Ouray School, there’s pretty much no job Bernie Pearce hasn’t done — and done exceptionally well. Teacher of math, Spanish, chemistry and physics. Coach of nearly every sport, with a special affinity for track and cross-country. Passionate advocate for student-athletes and molder of young people. Occasional bus driver.

But there’s one job he’s not very skilled at: Tough Guy.

Just ask Sandy Kern, who’s known Pearce for the duration of his time at ...