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The St. John's School of the Arts is one of the gems of Lycoming County vibrant arts scene, and we believe everyone should be excited that Todd Kendall, former Williamsport Area High School band director, will continue that tradition of excellence.
"He's got a passion for music and the arts, so we think he's just the right fit for the mission," Barry Rake, president of the school's board, told the Sun-Gazette for an article in last Thursday's Showcase. "He brings so much to the table, not only his passion for music and arts, but also his experience of being a band director. He know what it took to operate the Williamsport Area High School band … With his connections and knowledge, he knows how to get things done in the community."
Kendall, in his remarks to the Sun-Gazette, was humble and quick to praise the work and leadership of others -- an important trait for leaders itself. He noted the "phenomenal job" Becky Ciabatteri, the former director had done during the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic, praised the commitment to the arts and music seen at the area's other schools and the work of the board of St. John's School of the Arts.
"The board of directors is really passionate about making the school of the arts something very special in our community, which it already is, but making it even more present."
Our community's love for the arts and music is certainly special -- truly unrivaled in communities of this size. The St. John's School of the Arts plays an important part in fostering that love, and we are happy to see another community member who has proven his commitment to fostering that love will have an opportunity to take St. John's School of the Arts even further in its impressive journey.