The best teachers are the ones that are able to relate and unite with their students. These are the teachers that create the best culture in their classroom and are remembered by students for years to come. An amazing example of one of these teachers is Mrs. Judge, an orchestra teacher for the Victor Central School District. 

As she started playing the violin at the ripe age of 4 years old, she developed a passion for the art. She explained that music allows everyone to connect and express themselves that is comfortable. As well as the fact that music does indeed make everyone feel better. She states that “Music is a truly universal connection.”

As mentioned by Mrs. Judge, connecting with students is the best way to teach them and make them feel valuable. During her interview she states that having kids definitely helps to connect with her students. Growing up with kids in sports she’s aware of the busy schedule between students, athletes and musicians. Such as learning tips and tricks from them will help in her classroom for example, snacks and certain activities. Her goals while teaching mainly consist of helping all of her students love music and carry a big enough passion for music to continue to play for years to come. 

Mrs. Judge conveys the overall process for larger performances and concerts. She loves that she has the ability as a non-traditional teacher to choose how she can teach. She likes to give music to students based on their skills to showcase their strengths during productions. She loves when the music department and art department are able to collaborate, as well as combined pieces between the 6th and 12th grade. 

Mrs. Judge has a special role unlike most teachers because she teaches many different grades ranging from intermediate students to the seniors. She loves specific things about each age. She loves the excitement that younger students have explaining that because they don’t have the strongest skill sets they do a ton of reps. High school kids are playing a lot, and everyone is inevitably progressing to a higher level of expertise.   

The amount of effort that Mrs. Judge puts into teaching and uniting her students of all ages together creates a homey environment like no other. Her best advice for high school musicians is to never quit and try to play after high school because at this point you have already reached mastery! Her best advice for students is to always be willing to forgive yourself the same way you forgive others, always be kind to yourself. Mrs. Judge is a go to person if you ever need anything around the school, she is such a good teacher and person. We are lucky to have such a caring teacher at our school district!