This is the latest in our “Weston Wednesday” series, spotlighting the winners of the 2024 Judy Weston Awards for Inspired Teaching. Follow along each week to learn more about the impact these educators are making in the Montclair Public Schools.
At Buzz Aldrin Middle School Taylor Mandel is known as the band director, but it might be more appropriate to call him a wizard. It takes significant talent to teach instrumental music to middle schoolers. It takes a bit of magic to make them love it. And it takes a miracle worker to get them to stay after school for practice! Mr. Mandel does all that and much more.
Those who nominated him for the Weston Award noted that he creates a fun and nurturing classroom environment that focuses on teamwork and fosters camaraderie. Each year, the Buzz band gets bigger – a testament that students want to be a part of what he is building. He encourages and supports new instrumentalists, and challenges students who are ready to take their play to the next level. He provides ways for students to shine, gives them opportunities to lead, and helps them see their potential through positive support and feedback.
As one student said: “[Mr. Mandel] never tells you that you are not capable of doing something, but says you should have the mindset: ‘I can't do it yet, but I will be able to do it.’”
Mr. Mandel helps students navigate music on the page, but also gives them opportunities to see beyond their classroom walls, exploring the artistic and technical aspects of music production in his innovative class, traveling to the High Note Festival, performing at the Doughnut Run, and more.
For many students, Mr. Mandel is seeding a lifelong love for music, building their confidence, and stretching their abilities as musicians. He is the kind of teacher kids call their favorite, and will recall years from now as a positive role model and influence in their lives. He makes every student feel like a rock star. For all these reasons, Taylor Mandel is an inspired teacher.
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