Matthew Kinney

Tell us why you became a teacher

To be honest, I never planned on being a teacher. Once I started, however, I realized that is where I belong. It brings me joy to be able to share my love of music with students. I don't expect them to become world famous musicians, but I love seeing them find the same joy I have creating something special.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There was a particular marching band competition where the weather was not good at all. It was cold and rainy. The students did not want to be there and to be fair, I couldn't blame them. Throughout set up and warm ups, I kept reminding them to persevere and growth will happen. Like the fantastic kids they are, they pushed through and performed admirably. After they went back to the bus to get dry and I stayed to see how they ranked. I was able to go back to the bus with our first trophy.

What would you do with the $25,000?

There are 3 things I would probably do with the money. First, I'd take my wife on a vacation. She deserves it being married to a high school band teacher. Second, we have some home renovations that are needed. Third, I would probably buy and instrument or 2 for my school. Some definitely need replacing.