Bolden is back.
For the 2011-2012 school year, full ownership of the music department will now be in the hands of Marc Bolden, who is replacing former chorus director Dan Briggs. According to Briggs, everything that he coordinates now for the music department will be coordinated by Bolden next year.
According to Bolden, he was approached by Principal Paul Barker earlier in the semester before Briggs announced he was leaving. He was told by Barker that they would not be able to hire him again for the upcoming school year due to insufficient funds for the school to continue to pay another part-time teacher.
After Briggs accepted his position in Chicago, Illinois, JC opened up the job of full-time music director to the public and Bolden applied for the position.
“They treated me as if I was any other candidate . . . but they did take into consideration that I did work here for two years,” Bolden said.
According to Briggs, Barker made the final decision, though “he did take input from many stakeholders.”
“I’m excited for Mr. Bolden, as his best friend. I’m excited that he got the job. I’m excited that he can get a job. Professionally, it feels good. I’m happy that the band, chorus, and orchestra are in good hands,” Briggs said.
According to Bolden, students were not directly involved in the selection process, but some of the students did take personal initiative to speak with Barker. “It was much appreciated to feel that support from the student body,” Bolden said.
“I think it’s good that he’s staying because it’ll be an easy transition and everyone knows him already. He’ll keep some of the same traditions like jazz and pep band that a new teacher might change,” sophomore and chorus member Thomas Gardner said.
“I’m really happy that he got his job back and he’s going to continue to be a great addition to JC,” junior and orchestra member Amanda Weerasooriya said.
Grace Kim is a Managing Editor for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.