I finally have a moment to reflect on a day that was full of amazing moments and a first. As I am finishing my 35th year of teaching, I can say that the last three years have been so gratifying.
I was so proud of a group of young people that was faced with a daunting testing schedule and multiple absences as we approached a high stakes performance. Would they fold? Would they blame? Would they make excuses? No! They were accountable to each other, and supported each other. They looked for ways to put themselves and each other in the best positions for success. And they trusted me and each other.
This produced a powerful performance on Saturday that was not perfect, but I believe affected our audience, which is always our ultimate goal.
So much of the credit for our success goes to an amazing group of students and parents who have been so supportive of my vision. So much so, that it is now OUR vision.
Cleveland HS Bands have accomplished things at the State Band Championships that have never been achieved by a PPS school thanks to this shared vision.
Thank you for making what is most likely my final stop in my career (not done yet, just don’t plan to go anywhere else) my most rewarding, professionally speaking.
– Mr. Riler