By Emily Money

The results are in, and band director David Rogers has been named Teacher of the Year for the 2013-2014 school year! Nominated by anonymous staff, students, and community members before November 11, Rogers was then carefully selected by an unbiased committee and announced at a staff meeting in December.

“Mr. Rogers is a great teacher, and he fully deserves this award,” said sophomore band member Isabel Moran. “I think that the qualities that make him teacher of the year are that he really encourages students to keep developing their skills, and he really works with kids to help them succeed in what they are doing.”

As Director of Bands, Rogers oversees the three concert bands, the jazz ensemble, chamber ensembles, two winter drumlines, two Winter Guards, and the marching band. With his guidance, all of Central’s bands have flourished since he took the post in 1995.

“I think any great teacher cares about the kids first and foremost.  They also continue to strive to master their content and keep growing themselves.  They are also driven to do the best they can for the kids day in and day out.  It’s all about the students,” said Rogers.

Band students say that his caring teaching style is very unique. “His teaching style is different because at most times it is friendlier and more open, he doesn’t put extreme amounts of pressure on us during class, which I think is better for our performance,” said Moran.

This not the first time that Rogers has been recognized for his stellar achievements and thoughtful teaching style of the band. He was named Teacher of the Year in 1997-1998, as well as being elected to the American School Band Directors Association in 2004.

“I feel incredibly honored to receive this award. Walled Lake Central is filled with many great teachers and to receive this honor is very meaningful.  I am grateful,” said Rogers. “Walled Lake Central is a wonderful place to teach filled with great people in every position, great parental support, and of course great kids.  It makes my job a lot of fun.”