Band instruction has resumed at Rifle Middle School after the program was discontinued mid-year when a previously hired teacher withdrew over housing difficulties. The Post Independent reported that new band teacher Ben Sevy now leads nearly 20 seventh graders, nearly 20 eighth graders and a large group of sixth graders who are rebuilding skills after the interruption.
Principal Rob Dean told the Post Independent that even a short break in band instruction causes some students to lose interest. During the gap, students could take a forensic science course, and Rifle High School band director Jacob Schuelke helped start an after-school band club with high school students to keep middle schoolers playing.
Sevy spent an estimated 70 to 80 summer hours inventorying instruments and organizing the band room. Schuelke had already arranged for middle school instrument repairs through a collaborative effort involving Glenwood Music, Jazz Aspen Snowmass and the school. Sevy is now working to identify gaps in student fundamentals and strengthening ties between the middle and high school band programs.
Dean identified salary and housing costs as the greatest hiring challenges, noting that competing districts offer higher pay and subsidized staff housing. Sevy secured an affordable apartment through a chance conversation, making his move from Highlands Ranch possible.
For more information, visit postindependent.com.