Jeff Hoffman, Eastridge High School
By: Kevin Doran
Updated: February 1, 2011
We don't get many News 8 Golden Apple Award nominations for music teachers. We're not sure why, because they put in tons of hours outside of school. We surprise Jeff Hoffman, the Band Teacher at Eastridge High School.
Jeff Hoffman has been teaching Band at Eastridge High School for five years. In that time he's won over students and their parents.
David Nichols' daughter Rachel asked us to surprise Mr. Hoffman with a Golden Apple Award. "And he's just nurtured the kids and moved them along in the right direction and he's so encouraging. He's done a wonderful job and he's just a great guy and I'm glad that he got picked."
And here's the catch, Rachel didn't know we were at the school. So the surprise is on her too! Rachel was shocked. By the way it was the Principal's idea to keep it a secret from both of them.
Mr. Hoffman works hard to get students to love what he teaches. "I've wanted to be a teacher since I was in high school. My teachers influenced me, my brother's a teacher and it's something I've always loved."
Eastrridge High School Principal Mary Grow sees his dedication every day. "First thing in the morning he's usually here before most of the teachers and he's doing lessons with the students and trying to meet their needs throughout the day. And that sometimes means he goes to 10 o'clock at night."
Jeff knows all that time pays off in rehearsals and concerts. "You know, great performances because they work so hard, and I can't tell you how many kids today alone were here, just practicing on their own, not because I told them to, they're just here because they like playing music. You know, so that's my goal."
Jeff Hoffman is a News 8 Golden Apple Award winner. If you look below you can read Rachel's letter nominating Mr. Hoffman.
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Dear Channel 8,
Mr. Hoffman is an amazing band teacher. He instructs the concert band, symphonic band, and the marching band, amongst various other music groups. He is very helpful, and makes the most out of the learning.
I've improved so much on my instrument because of him. He goes out of his way to help you whenever you need it, and he is just an all-around great guy. If anyone is deserving of this award, it's him.
Sincerely,
Rachel Nichols, Eastridge High School
