As part of our continuing series on the exceptional educators serving the students of Central High School, I recently conversed with a relatively new teacher in Spring Cove who is devoting his life to music education – Mr. Dustin Rainey. Teachers are some of the most trust-worthy, caring, dedicated, and patient people in this world. They mold and shape the students with which they interact into productive, respectable, and compassionate citizens. Although I have known Mr. Rainey for over a year, I gained a much greater understanding of him as a person during our interview.

Mr. Rainey came to our school district in January of 2003 as a substitute in order to assist with elementary and middle school music instruction after the tragic death of Mr. Jack Shaffer. When the school district began interviewing applicants for the position of high school band director, Mr. Rainey enthusiastically applied. He informed me that he was eager to gain permanent employment in our school district in order to interact with the students and parents in this small, friendly community.

Mr. Rainey was born and raised in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania and graduated from Central Cambria High School in 1998. During high school, Mr. Rainey was heavily involved in a wide array activities involving music, including the concert and marching bands at his school. Following high school, Mr. Rainey entered the Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) where he recently attained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Education. When asked the question, “Why did you decide to become a music teacher?” he replied in a quite simplistic manner that he has always had a genuine love of music and admiration of those who teach it. He also stated that he has always gained satisfaction from helping others to learn and has never considered another career. In my opinion, these statements truly exemplify the level of dedication present within him.

When I inquired about what he saw as the most satisfying part of his job, he replied, “The kids.” He informed me that he enjoys instructing talented students who are capable of playing challenging, quality literature. In response to the question, “How do you plan to improve the music program at Central High School?” Mr. Rainey said that he would like to increase student participation in the concert band, develop a number of new ensembles, and institute a new jazz band early in the next school year. He also stated that he would be thrilled if he were able to further improve the band from its existing state of excellence.

After asking about what he saw as the most challenging aspect of his occupation, Mr. Rainey replied that he has found it difficult to institute new teaching methods upon students who are resistant to change. Regardless of this, though, Mr. Rainey stated that he enjoys the challenge of developing a new program for the enjoyment of all students.

Of course, Mr. Rainey does have a life outside of his experiences at Central High School. He is currently working with the Allegheny Highland Regional Theatre on a production of School House Rock. He is also involved with a band named “Spoonchatter.” They frequently play at private gatherings and are currently in the process of releasing a CD. It is obvious that Mr. Rainey considers music to be more than just a job, but a life. I believe that he is truly passionate about music and gains immense enjoyment by imparting that passion to others.