MICHIGAN, USA — Our next Teacher of the Week is passing on his love of music to hundreds of students at Tri County schools. He had no idea we’d be stopping by one of his band classes for the surprise.
His name is Ryan Schultz. He’s the Tri County band director for the middle and high schools. Shortly after the surprise, Schultz told 13 ON YOUR SIDE, “I’m not a huge fan of surprises,” as he chuckled.
“We had about two or three people involved to try to get him out of the classroom and he doesn’t like to get out of the classroom. He loves working with the kids all the time,” said Tim Goheen, the Tri County High School principal.
Laughing, Schultz said, “I was confused. I had no idea what was happening and why they were all facing this way. That was my initial thing was, what are you guys doing? You can’t hear correctly.”
“It’s great. I mean, that’s super nice," he added.
“[Schultz is] a staff member that is a huge asset to our district. So, anytime we can showcase one of our best teachers in the district, I was just super ecstatic," said Goheen.
“As teachers, you’re worried about the students all the time. So, you’re not really worried about recognition because usually there’s not much recognition. So, that’s super nice,” said Schultz.
He’s been with the school for about 10 years and said the job has its ups and downs.
“It’s super tiring, but it’s great. It’s something that at the end of the day you go, ‘I’m exhausted but I wouldn’t want to do anything else,’” said Schultz.
“We’ve always had a great band program at Tri County but he’s taken it to that next level," said Goheen.
“Even if they don’t go into music, just being good leaders in the community and being involved in something, taking pride in what you do every day, regardless of what that is,” said Schultz.
Making a difference and not just with music.
“Kids absolutely love him. He’s so positive on the staff. The kids just want to be around him whether it’s before school, after school,” said Goheen.
The band director said he’s hoping to pass on his love for music and teaching.
“I think teachers are the stewards to help the leaders of tomorrow,” said Schultz.
If you have someone you’d like to nominate as our next Teacher of the Week, just text the word “teacher” to 616-559-1310.
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