For Immediate Release:
Contact: Rick Reo, Superintendent
(269) 415-5200
Rick.reo@ppps.org
PAW PAW PUBLIC SCHOOLS BAND TEACHER NAMED TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Paw Paw, MI – (May 7, 2021) After 29 years of building an exceptional band program at Paw Paw Public Schools, High School, and Middle School Band Teacher Amy Gronda has been recognized for her hard work and dedication by being voted this year’s Teacher of the Year for Michigan School Band & Orchestra Association (MSBOA) District 6.
According to MSBOA President-Elect Tianna Doe, “Amy's work has always shown a dedication to the community of Paw Paw, the Paw Paw Band Program, and to the success of music education throughout Southwest Michigan. She has served on our District Executive Board, hosted many events at your beautiful facilities, is a highly respected adjudicator around the state, and has recently served on the State Executive Board. The icing on the cake is the bands at Paw Paw always give outstanding performances that show the type of musician and teacher Amy truly is.”
Paw Paw High School Principal Tammy Southworth had this to say when she learned that Gronda had won the award. “It is no surprise to me for Amy to receive this award. Her dedication to not only her bands but to MSBOA is evident. In addition to being an excellent teacher, she serves as a mentor to many new teachers in Paw Paw and the surrounding districts.”
Paw Paw Public School Superintendent Rick Reo adds, “Amy is a gem, a real difference-maker for her students and our district as a whole.”
Always one to deflect attention, Gronda knew that she had won the award but kept the news to herself. It was not until official notification came to the Superintendent from MSBOA that others were even aware of it.
When asked about her reaction to the great news Gronda said, “It’s overwhelming, and quite an honor that my colleagues would recognize the time and energy I’ve put into this job. It’s truly for the love of the kids and the teachers.”
To find out more about the exciting learning opportunities that await your child at Paw Paw Public Schools, call 269-415-5400 or visit online at ppps.org.