Time to say Goodbye

Greetings Smokey Road Parents and Students,

It is with great sadness that I type this final letter to each of you. This will be my final week in the classroom with the students at Smokey Road Middle School.  I have enjoyed the beautiful music that we have made together.  I have enjoyed working with the greatest group of students, the best teachers, supportive administrators, and an awesome group of parents.  Little did I know 8 years ago, that I was walking into a band that would change my life.  I remember unlocking the door for the first time and seeing that first group of students walk into the room.  Since that day, literally thousands have walked into room with smiling (and often nervous) faces.  We have faced the room in almost every way possible.  We have built things, repaired things, broke things, and shared so many laughs.

Most importantly, I witnessed what can happen when a group of people, young or old, truly believe that they were created for greatness.  I have watched people realize that they can do anything when they believe in their endless possibilities.  I have witnessed barriers being crossed and lives becoming changed.  While there were struggles along the way, each struggle led to an even greater victory.

I am not certain if I will remember all of the plaques and trophies, but I know that I will remember all of the faces.  I am not sure if I will always remember the concerts, but I know I am going to take with me the small moments leading up to those concerts and the memories that were created.

During the last few days, I have had the honor to get to know Mr. Prado who will be the new face of our band program.  He is a great young man with a dynamic personality and a bold new vision for our band program.  He has new ideas, dreams, and great plans for our band.  He embodies what I believe all good band directors have, the ability to never see an obstacle, but instead see a possibility.  While it is always hard to face a change, I could see today, that the change for our band is a good one.  Mr. Prado used the word "family" many times today.  To me, that is a sign that he understands what our band is truly about.  We are a family.  I am proud to see a new teacher get to experience what has been the greatest honor of my life, to be a part of our Smokey Road Band family.

Each January, people joke around and say that I should give a "state of the band" address to mimic the Presidential State of the Union address.  This always makes me smile, but the truth is I stand here today and can tell that you that the state of band is good.  Where there is a vision, there is always a promise.  I am happy to welcome Mr. Prado to our band, and the promise that his new vision brings is exciting, especially to me.

Thank you for the memories.

Go Wildcats!

Dr. Boyd