Richard Hammarstrom Jr., who teaches music at Sierra High School, was named the 2014-15 San Joaquin County Teacher of the Year.
“I have often left his class thinking how fortunate the kids are to have a teacher who gives them every ounce of energy that he has, every day,” said Steve Clark, Sierra High School Principal. “The greatest compliment I can give Richard is the hope that my own three children will have teachers who are just as passionate, caring, and inspirational as he is.”
Praised for his integrity, compassion, and diligence by his colleagues and peers, Hammarstrom says he just does what he loves.
“I knew in high school what I was going to do,” said Hammarstrom. “I knew I loved music... I loved working with people… I put those things together, and it’s been life changing.”
Hammarstrom has worked at Manteca Unified School District for 25 years as a marching, concert, and jazz band teacher. In this time, he gained the admiration and respect of students and peers alike. Whether he is taking students to other countries or finding an instrument for a student who cannot afford one, Hammarstrom’s dedication and love for music is what makes him a great teacher.
Richard knows not every student will move on to a career in music, but wants them to learn the life skills through band.
“The experience, teamwork, dependability, responsibility, integrity, honesty is my main focus,” said Hammarstrom. “My students learn to be disciplined…to be creative…to work with other people and these are all skills they will need throughout their life.”
Hammarstrom was announced as the 2014-15 San Joaquin County Teacher of the Year at the 4th Annual San Joaquin County Classified Employee and Teacher of the Year Awards Celebration Dinner, sponsored by Premier Community Credit Union and San Joaquin County Office of Education. Courtesy of Premier Community Credit Union, Hammarstrom received $1,000 and the four teacher finalists received $400 each. His application will be submitted to the State for consideration as the California Teacher of the Year.
In 1972, California began recognizing outstanding teachers for their dedication and commitment. Since that time, San Joaquin County Office of Education has recognized 38 outstanding individuals as the County Teacher of the Year. Three San Joaquin County Teachers of the Year, Paulette Bogetti (1992), Jeff Wright (2001), and Art Coleman (2003) went on to be selected as California Teacher of the Year. Each district, through their Superintendent’s office, may submit up to three candidates for consideration for the San Joaquin County Teacher of the Year.
Click here to read this story and others in September's Outlook.