Gaither named outstanding music educator

GREENWICH — The Toledo Symphony Orchestra selected Joe Gaither as Outstanding Music Educator of the Year. Gaither is the South Central director of bands and was nominated by general music teacher Lori Weaver. He said a panel of musicians reviewed and evaluated the nominations and chose the six finalists. More than 53,000 votes were cast for the finalists, and Gaither came out the winner. "I am greatly honored to be nominated, let alone to have been chosen as Music Educator of the Year," he said. "I came to South Central in 2014 and am inspired by the community support of the music department in our schools." At the bottom of the email he had received from TSO were some comments that were submitted by voters. "So many of the responses were moving and reminded me why I do what I do, 'to educate tomorrow's leaders through music.'" A few of the many kind words left by voters: "Joe Gaither puts his heart and soul into music and teaching. I was not a band member in school but both of my sons in South Central absolutely love and excel in band and Mr. Gaither is hugely to thank for that. They look forward to every band experience. It's not work to them, it's fun, educational and memorable. Thank you for being an AMAZING musician and teacher, Mr. Gaither!" "Joe has really turned the band around during his short time with the district. They have performed at the Peach Bowl and Disney World. Not bad for a little school district in the middle of nowhere!" "Not only does Joe teach band, but he tutors struggling students in their academic subjects as well. This is done on his own time!"