So I will!
Kevin Kaisershot Wins Teacher's March Composition Contest
ASCAP, the American Society of Composers, Authors & Publishers, is pleased to announce that Kevin Kaisershot of Aurora, Illinois has been chosen as the winner of the Teacher's March composition contest. His work will be debuted at MENC's Music Education Week in Washington on June 18, 2009.
MENC would like to thank ASCAP's members and all of the composers who submitted compositions to this contest, as well as the contest's judges who graciously donated their time to this endeavor.
(MENC: National Association for Music Education formally known as Music Educators National Conference)
59 comments:
WOW! One of our district's finest gets national recognition! Way to go, Mr. K!!
"Kevin Kaisershot of Aurora, Illinois"--where was the Beacon on this story? Did they cover it & I missed it?
Well done and well deserved! We are proud of you, K!!!!
This is a great honor for Mr. Kaisershot and for our district. Thanks so much for posting this, Rayanne.
This blog scooped the Beacon, I guess. I remember years ago when Kevin Kaisershot composed a march for the Lions Club in Massachusetts; there was a nice article and picture in the Beacon. But now that he gets an award from 2 national organizations (ASCAP and MENC), there's no publicity?
It would sure be nice if the positive things happening in our district got the same press coverage as the negative stuff!
I'm a friend of the Kaisershots, and I know that both Mr. & Mrs. K sent this info to the Beacon a couple of weeks ago. Maybe the Beacon didn't mention it because it didn't come from the official district spokesperson, Clayton Muhammad (remember his famous comment, "the issue is over"?)
Or maybe the Beacon didn't have room for this positive news after reporting all the murders, foreclosures, etc.
But at least we have blogs like this one to keep us informed--thanks, Rayanne!
Congratulations to Kevin Kaisershot for this achievement, and also a big thank-you to Rayanne for keeping our community informed on this blog since the local newspaper dropped the ball on this one.
Thanks so much for posting this Rayanne!! It's great to stay updated on the community.
You are all very welcome. I was very happy to post this news.
If anyone has any 131 news of events, milestones, awards, etc. they would like to share, I will gladly post it in the blog.
News and accomplishments of what 131 alumni are doing, any news is welcome :o)
My personal email is in my blog profile.
This is something that the district should be getting out in the news a positive and really an example of excellence in this district. I hope they don't let this go by like so many other things that happen in this district. So Mr. K as a community person and as a parent of someone that was in your band who still thinks so much of you congratulation's for all you have done for the children in this district. You have given them so much and for all the ones that for many years still remember you that is really something you can be proud of and no one can take that away from you. You are truly someone this district should be proud of. I sure you really are someone who want to raise the flag of East Aurora and wants it to fly high. Thank you for the the things to make this district look good and all the children you have taught and touched their lives.
This is another example of how this district administration works. This is a nationally known musician and composer who has dedicated his life to music and children who receives no respect from this districts leadership.
Once again excellence is not rewarded. To be recognized in this district, you must kiss the administrators A$$.
It's no wonder that we have so much difficulty retaining excellent teachers.
Mr. K's non-recognition by administration is just one more reason why we need new School Board members, who can have a say in how our district is run. Clayton Muhammad has WAY too much power in this district, to control what gets out to the media.
I'm wondering, if Mr. K were a Black man would his achievement be publicly recognized by D131? Maybe race isn't a factor, but then again maybe it is.
If the Beacon does not publish this news in the next month or so, I'm thinking that some of us can buy a half-page ad and put Mr. K's picture and the news release from ASCAP, congratulating him on this award.
I'd be willing to give $ for this, instead of paying for those expensive hotel rooms for administrators staying overnight in Chicago!
10:08 says that Kevin Kaisershot is a nationally-recognized composer. Actually, he's an INTERNATIONALLY-recognized composer! His compositions and arrangements have been performed by bands & ensembles in Japan, Germany, and Canada (to name just a few examples).
Go ahead and Google "Kevin Kaisershot". You'll get more than 2,000 hits--and they're not all in English!
But I guess the bigwigs in the D131 administration doesn't consider his accomplishments worthy of mention. Lucky for us Mr. K chooses to stay in this district, despite being disrespected by those who PRETENDED they were acting in our kids' best interests a few years ago.
While we're mentioning our district's finest, I want to encourage everyone to go to the East High choral concert tomorrow night. Mrs. Nadel and her assistant Mrs. Allen always put together an enjoyable, quality performance. I'm proud to be a Tomcat when all the alums are invited to join in at the end of the concert!
I agree!
Mrs. Nadel and Mrs Allen really produce a great program.
Everytime I have been able to attend I get teary when the alumni join the present EA students on stage to sing.
What a great tradition!
Let's hope this district takes a good look at what is going on with Blago and starts to do the right thing in this district and make sure we do what is right for the kids in this district and not what some can put in their pocket or what monies they can use for their benefit.
Take time also to see the choral concert and enjoy the things we can be proud of in this district.
Speaking of Blago, I'm reading in the Beacon this morning about Weisner's pal Raghuveer Nayak's involvement with Blago's fundraising scheme.
Several have mentioned that we need new School Board members in the spring--while we're at it, let's elect a new mayor too. I'm supporting Stephanie Kifowit. She's been a great alderman for the 3rd ward here on the East Side, and her motto is "Leadership that Listens". Wouldn't that be nice, both in D131's administration & at City Hall?
Did not see anything about the govenor on this blog. Since the subject of mayor was brought up, I will not vote for Kifowit. She did not say anything about the referendum or can you tell me if she listened to what anyone had to say about it? Chapa at least voiced her opinion. Kifowit has a reputation of not following thru on things. I know people have different opinions if she has been a good alderperson for the third ward.
Now back to the subject of this posting on this blog.
Good going Mr. Kaisershot!
The Beacon did mention Mr. K's award. It's in this morning's paper, on page A5, under "Our Towns".
There's no picture, and it took them awhile, but they did mention it--so thanks, Beacon!
A few years ago this award-winning march might have been proudly premiered by our own East High band, but we can thank certain administrators (Dr. Gonzalez, Mr. Harmon, Ms. Farnum, Mr. Salinas, etc.) for their "creative vision" in improving (?!) the EHS band program.
But maybe one of Mr. K's band-director friends (I know he has many) will be willing & able to have their group play it. In January, hundreds of music teachers will be meeting in Peoria at the annual All-State convention. I'm sure the "Teacher's March" will be a topic of conversation, just as Mr. K's treatment by our district a few years ago was discussed among band directors statewide.
I wonder what other Band Directors would think if they knew one of there own would routinely play a solo in his own band concert. Or better yet when the school would have to hire out the pit for a musical production because the music was too hard for the band members to learn?????????
These things occurred every year Mr. K was in charge of the program. Didn't it ever strike you as odd that your kids never played in the spring musical. Or that he was never seen supporting any of the other fine arts programs at East. But he sure blew a mean Horn!!!!!!!!!!
4:48 p.m., you don't know what you're talking about when you say that Mr. K. "was never seen supporting any of the other fine arts programs". He was always helping Mrs. Nadel set up and record her choral concerts. And the other Fine Arts faculty at East High thought so highly of him when he was their department chair that all of them except one signed a letter to the Beacon protesting his reassignment.
And as far as I know, Mr. K NEVER performed a solo at a concert band performance! There are 20+ years of printed programs that prove this. For an occasional jazz band concert he would play if no student wanted to take a particular solo, just as his wife would graciously volunteer when no student pianist was available.
I have seen other directors play with their band, why would it be a bad thing if K. did it, too?
K. worked with what he was given and did not suck up nor does he now Kiss butt to get what he needs for his band program. Rather than do that, he (and other EA band directors) have been working with outside business partners long before 131 campaigned the idea like it was a new strategic plan.
One certain whiny band director cannot see the light or hear his own failure as a director due to his head being up Harmons bassoon. He licked Arlene's shoes for any opportunity she'd give him.
He is probably 4:48, who does not realize other respectable directors turned down the EA job when they realized what 131 had done to "one of their own."
I haven't come here in a while and it was nice to see the honor won by Mr. K. Congratulations.
Then I read down and the comments get downright mean and personal - from both sides. I know there are strong feelings. I was hoping this whole post and comments would simply praise Mr. K. for his accomplishments.
I just want to add a few things. I regularly attend the fine arts activities:
1. I hope the district honors Mr. K. with some recognition for this accomplishment.
2. The high school band concerts was excellent on Dec. 5. Great attendance too. Loved the Wind Ensemble outfits.
3. The choral concert on Dec. 11was great as usual. You can see the hard work and dedication.
4. The Gates/Jazz Band combination program last night - what a nice idea!!! I happen to have a grandaughter at Gates and it was just a wonderful time.
So Happy Holidays and Let's celebrate our students and their wonderful talents as well as thank our talented directors.
4:48, let me give you a little history lesson. When Mr. K was hired at East High, the previous band director had not been directing the pit for musicals, so directing the pit was not expected to be part of the job. And I do remember many band students playing for musicals when Mr. K was at East High--just ask alums and parents if you doubt this.
And as far as bringing in outside musicians to play along with students when the score is difficult, many smart, resourceful schools do just that. One local example would be West High's production of "Miss Saigon" a couple of years ago. About 2/3 of the pit was students (20 or so); the other 10 were older, experienced players. And for the record, the pit was directed not by one of the several band directors at West, but by Mr. McLear (a choir director). The result was a show that represented the school and community very well.
I just noticed on the D131 website that Kevin Kaisershot was mentioned as one of the examples of excellence on Dec. 15th. So some people in this district do realize his accomplishments, although it takes awhile I guess.
How ignorant is D131 and Roberts to wait until after 6 am to call off school. As an conscientious employee, I kept checking to see if we had school as I live about 40 minutes away. When it was not called at 6 am, I left at 6:05 to attempt to drive to work in these treacherous conditions. Then, one of our principals calls my home (which I had already left) to tell me they cancelled school and to call my call list. Unbelievable. By the time I could turn around and get home, many of the people on my call list had already left. Clearly, I was not going to call from my cell phone while driving in and on ice. This is totally unacceptable. This decision should have been made before six and not waiting for West to call off. Many of our dedicated staff do not leave in district and were well on their way to work. We were also told the automated caller would be implemented. I, nor several of my colleagues have received any calls. This clearly sends a message that the district administration does not care about the well being of the staff. I have learned my lesson, next time there is weather like this, I will call in sick.
I have heard of this happening before. They do not like to be compared to 129, yet we are always following them, never leading.
That is why we get stuck with leftover admin. 129 picks the cream we get the crap.
Stop whining.
Since there's no school today and everyone can access this blog (which is blocked on all D131 computers--paranoia much??), hopefully some administrators will read 6:54 a.m.'s comment & realize that the system for notifying staff of school closings needs to be improved.
And 7:33, my grandma used to say that "the squeaky wheel gets the grease". 6:54 wasn't whining; they were squeaking.
You really think they blocked this blog because of all the amazing comments that happen here. No they blocked ALL blogs, because they don't want teachers or STUDENTS blogging.
This blog is nothing. It is worth nothing and has no impact on anything.
Educating for the future should encourage all aspects of communication. Blogging is very much apart of the information highway. If you don't like this stretch of road, stay off.
If you feel that this blog is nothing, why bother reading it & commenting?
I do appreciate this particular blog, because I've learned things here I wouldn't have found out otherwise in a timely manner. Most recently, Mr. K's award.
And I think the district's blocking access to all blogs is because they want staff & students to use their time productively. Most school districts & businesses have similar filters in place.
6:54- I had the same issue this am. I had already left for work. Several of my colleagues have told me they never even received a call from their schools. Next time, I am not going to bother either.
And those of you who are upset enough to call in sick next time are unhappy with your raises?
The point has nothing to do with raises. It has to do with safety. There is no reason that the decision could not have been made prior to 6 am so people did not have to drive in the icy mess. But since you asked, we did not get the raises the service center people who make these decisions get. Nor do our raises compare to the surrounding districts. Yet, we are not complaining about that- we were trying to get to work on time to do our jobs and are merely asking for a little common sense not a raise. I don't blame people who call in when the conditions are too dangerous. Many area business were closed today.
It wasn't just 129 and 131 that called off later than normal (Kaneland was late too and they have way more issues with travel). I think they were all trying to avoid calling off since so many classes have parties and events planned for the holidays. It wasn't until it started "thunder snowing" and freezing raining a little before 6 that they probably made the call. Earlier than that it was just rain. I was up watching the Chicago news and there weren't that many communities showing classes cancelled until after 6. Since 131 coops with 129 for Special Ed transportation, they probably follow their lead.
District 204 was also off today. And I think one big reason they hesitated to cancel school was because this was the last day for final exams at the high schools, so now those exams will have to be rescheduled after winter break.
Road conditions were pretty much o.k. after 9 a.m. or so, but admins had to make an educated guess and I'm sure they wanted to err on the side of caution. No matter what they decided, some folks would have been P.O.ed.
For almost $200,000 a year Dr. Roberts should be able to make a simple decision in a timely fashion. Dr. Roberts inability to make a decision in a timely fashion did put staff members at increased risk this morning.
I suggest that if Dr. Roberts is incapable of making the decision, he should either resign or delegate the job to someone who is less mentally challenged.
Did Dr.Roberts make this decision here in D131 or from his home? If he was here he knew the road conditions. If he did not come in today that should have answered it all since he lives in Joliet.
To all the teachers who complain about driving so far. Why don't you live in the district and pay taxes.
I'll live in the district when the superintendent does!
When Dr. Roberts was first hired, I understood that he didn't want to uproot his teenaged stepchildren by moving into this district. I grew up with a stepfather, and I know how much turmoil is involved in a blended family even without kids' having to move away from friends & schools. I respected Dr. Roberts' choice in putting his family's interests first.
But the stepkids have graduated from high school. Why shouldn't Dr. Roberts relocate inside the boundaries of this district, as has been required of every previous superintendent for 100+ years??
So some of you would lie and say you are sick instead of telling the truth and taking a personal day? Is this the example you want to set for the kids? Apparently its not important to you. What happened to good old fashioned work ethics?
11:58: Obviously, the staff who wrote in all clearly were setting an example by leaving early to try to get to work despite the icy road conditions.This is called being prepared for your job. My kids do comment on their teachers attendance so these people are setting an example by trying to get to work on time. Plus, our personal days roll over into sick days so it really does not matter which one they use. I think they were just trying to say they would call off instead of trying to risk injury. People at my job called off due to weather and I don't work at a school.
Noticed in today's paper how the other superintents decided about how there would be school or not but nothing at all was in there why Dr.Roberts decided. His name was not mentioned at all. Thought this very interesting. Don't count on the man moving here, he just had a pool built for his wife. Now, that should tell everyone he has never had any intentions moving here at all. He just plans on milking this district(he is doing a VERY good job in this area)for all he can get. Anyone else know of any other district that renews a superintents contract a year before it is due with the raise and annuity that this man is getting for doing nothing at all?
just wanted to say that I "loved" getting the personal Christmas cards with all the service center peoples' photos on it again this year. how much do those things cost for 1300 employees? where do most of those cards end up? i wonder if they saw mine in the garbage when they came into my classroom in their elves costumes on thursday morning...whoops!
Bah Humbug
Somebody at the service center should have been doing their job instead of dressing up as an elf, because when I tried to view the board bits for 12/15, all I saw was a "server error" message.
Some of the folks over there deserve coal in their stockings!
Back to the original topic--I just wanted to make sure everyone knew about another recent honor for our own Kevin Kaisershot. In November there was a guest artist recital at NIU featuring internationally famous trumpeter Allen Vizzutti. The recital included classical, Broadway, and jazz pieces played by brass ensembles along with Mr. Vizzutti as soloist. The last selection on the program was listed as the final chorus from "Messiah" by G.F. Handel, arranged by Kevin Kaisershot. Over 100 trumpeters stood onstage and played Mr. K's arrangement as a trumpet choir.
You can bet that many, many people have been reading and hearing the name "Kevin Kaisershot" and asking why such a capable, talented man was treated so poorly by this district a few years ago. How embarrassing for certain administrators--but how fortunate for our kids that he is still teaching in D131.
I'm surprised that the district would send anything since they don't acknowledge employees service anniversaries but then again it is a way to show us how the service center people have nothing else to do than pose for pictures.
To: December 20, 2008 9:53 PM
Dr. Roberts knows that there is a good chance that the school board may look very different come this spring. He arranged his raise and extended contract early because he knew that new objective community members would fire him at thier first opportunity. The new contract will give him time to try and corrupt whatever new members the community elects.
Yes, I agree he arranged his raise with the attorney, but the board, escept for 2(might have been 3) were for it. Shame on the ones for it and for Roberts arranging his own contract with the attorney. What do we need a board for if Roberts goes behing their back, HE IS THEIR AND OUR EMPLOYEE, not the other way around. Also, very blatant of him since wanting that referendum as we pay him more before his contract was up! Lets just hope when it comes time to vote for school board members, that everyone remembers who was for this!
To All the Teachers and Staff of The East Aurora Schools:
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! THANKS FOR ALL YOU GIVE TO THE STUDENTS IN THE DISTRICT.
I see from the board bits that they gave a dinner to thank all that helped with the referendum which was passed. Lets hope that they give thanks also to all the citizens that say they thought they where miss led in this and that the district does what they say they would do with this money. They must remember that the community thought that this money would go to the children of this district and their education and hopefully this is true. Not for a magnet school or for a new school for that but for the children of this district. Let us hope that this referendum goes to all the children of this district and not the goals of the superintendent that took two years to achieve and that he had little to do with. To the administrators and others that got promotions and salaries increases let's hope that this money they get from the referendum doesn't go for this. Hopefully all that got some good raises for the little they do can sleep well at night. For the administration and school board that doesn't follow school policy about employee recognition but pat them selfs on the back can live with them selfs. Have a safe and Happy New Year and may this administration, school board and superintendent remember in the New Year to acknowledge our teachers for their service to this district and all they do and not for their own selfs.
I'm hoping that the New Year brings some improvements in the district websites. It's been more than a year since they've supposedly been in the process of upgrading; today I went to the East High website and clicked on "Administration", where I was able to read Ms. Conrad's congratulations to the graduating seniors last spring. And according to the "new, improved" EHS site, Rick Johnson is still the athletic director!
It's been said before that we're getting what the administration thinks we deserve, which in this case is outdated, wrong, and missing information. But they seem to have no problem helping themselves to our tax money for hotel rooms and fancy dinners!
Let us hope that the money from the referendum did not pay for that dinner. Where would they put it on the monthly expenses for the budget?
It's possible that one of the district's alums or business partners donated the money for the celebration dinner. But I plan to look through the December check register to see exactly how our money is being spent.
I'd like to wish the East Aurora community a very happy New Year. May 2009 be a year of improved accountability and communication in our district.
And best of luck to the new School Board members who will be elected this spring!
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