Irmo High School band director recognized nationally as one of “50 Directors Who Make a Difference”

IRMO, SC – Irmo High School band director Roger Simpson has been recognized nationally by the School Band and Orchestra (SBO) magazine in their 19^thannual “50 Directors Who Make a Difference” edition. The magazine showcases great music educators from all 50 states. Current and former students, colleagues, peers, parents and other admirers of band and orchestra directors submitted nominations for these outstanding band and orchestra directors.

Simpson is in his fifth year as Director of Band at Irmo High School. He is a graduate of Charleston Southern University where he received his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. Prior to arriving at Irmo, Simpson served as Director of Bands at Barnwell High School and Hartsville High School where he was named Teacher of the Year in 2010. In 2011, he was named the South Carolina Music Educators Association’s Young Music Educator of the Year. This year under the direction of Simpson, Irmo finished second in the AAA Lower State Championship.

“Each year, I encourage my students to work to their fullest potential so that there is no room left for regret,” Simpson told SBO. “This is a concept that I hope they apply to all areas of their lives, not just music. In life, those who find themselves the most successful understand that there is simply no time to waste. My hope is that in 30 years, they will not have regrets about what they could have or should have done, but will be proud of where they are and what they have accomplished.”

SBO also asked Simpson what his proudest moment is as an educator. “I am the proudest at the end of every school year when I have the opportunity to watch each of my students walk across the stage and pick up their diplomas,” Simpson said. “From the student who worked hard and barely passed, to the student who worked hard and became valedictorian of the class, I find myself equally proud of them all. With each step, I think back upon their first day of their first band camp and reflect upon how much each one has grown and matured. While there is a bit of sadness to see a member of the band family embark on the next chapter, I am confident that they will go on to personify the positive change that we want to see in the world.”

Irmo High School principal David Riegel shared his thoughts on Simpson’s recognition saying, “Roger has been an instrumental part of our arts department and the growth of our arts magnet here at IHS. He is collaborative, patient and thoughtful in the design of his programs and activities. Roger is greatly admired by his students and colleagues and Irmo High is so lucky to have him. I know that this is just the beginning of the great things that he will accomplish as part of our school!”