A wall of fame usually recognizes the best of the best in a certain field. Steve Kessler, music teacher at Cornwall Middle School, believes that honor should be extended to those who try to be the best they can be. When he came to the district 14 years ago, Kessler created his own Music Wall of Fame.
“I just wanted to recognize the kids who are not the top musicians but who have a great attitude and are trying their best and just give it their all,” he said. “They may not be the ones who are always recognized. Sometimes it’s not your first chair player. It could be the kid who’s trying, giving it his all, but he’s never going to be there. Sometimes it is the star kids. It’s a way to recognize a variety of kids.”
Each month, Kessler chooses one student from each grade to put on the Wall of Fame. There are no set parameters by which he makes his decision, but he does factor in attendance, attitude, preparedness, and camaraderie. Maybe it’s the student who asks great questions or shows the greatest ability to apply the concepts taught in class.
Once the students are selected, their names are announced over the loudspeaker and each receives a letter of congratulations. Kessler invites them to the band room for a photograph, which he has each student approve before printing it out to hang on the hallway outside the band room. Kessler also sends a copy to the parents.
After the month is over, the 8×10 photos find their way onto the walls of the band room. The students typically remain on the wall until the photos start to deteriorate or more room is needed. Kessler said if students have graduated from college, or are married with their own children, it’s safe to take down their photos.
It’s estimated over 500 students have been named to the Music Wall of Fame, some more than once in different years.
“I love recognizing the kids,” Kessler said. “I think it’s a great thing to do. It’s just another way for me to say I’m aware of what you’re doing. I appreciate the hard work you’re putting in. I appreciate the help you give to another.”
How the honored students feel about it is hard to say as Middle School students are hard to read, said Kessler.
“I’ve been working with them long enough that I get the sense that I think inside they’re saying — like ‘Alright, I nailed it. I’m on the wall.’ But on the outside they’re like, ‘That’s cool Mr. Kessler. Can I go now?’”
