Editor’s note: “Student to Staff” is a new series that celebrates the journeys of our dedicated staff members who once walked the halls of Ann Arbor Public Schools as students themselves. They’ve come full circle, returning to enrich the very educational community that nurtured their own growth and development.
Jeffrey Willets, what unique perspective do you bring to your role as an AAPS music teacher, having been both a student and teacher in the same district?
I truly believe I had the best teachers around. I had two that shaped my content area. The first was Mary Ann Hall (elementary) and Ken Westerman (secondary). Both were truly excellent and encouraging mentors.
What aspects of your experience as a student in AAPS influenced your decision to become aneducator in this district?
I wanted to be like my middle school music teacher, Ken Westerman. He was young. He said, “Anyone can sing and anyone can learn anything if they try hard enough.” He was right.
What was your favorite subject or class as a student, and how has the teaching of that subject changed over the years?
Music was my favorite subject, but I had others. My high school Humanities class for instance: I was told by a counselor I was “too slow” to do well in a college bound class. Which made me want to take it all the more. And the incredible teachers and subjects: Art, Music, History, Literature. Just amazing.
Did you experience first-day-of-school jitters?
Always.
Do you now?
Yes. Sigh.
What was music class like back at Carpenter in those years?
With Mary Ann Hall, there was no music room. She and her opera-singing husband would roll the piano into the classroom and sing with us for half an hour. Later, it was a portable.
Can you recall a pivotal moment during your time as a student that reinforced your connection
to AAPS?
I think it was when I was in fifth grade and was a part of “All City Music Night” at Crisler Arena. The sight and power of all of those people district-wide making music together was just amazing.
Finish this sentence: Middle school was:
Tough. The hormones. Trying to fit in. It was a tough time.
Did you enjoy high school?
Yes, it was a whole new world and I found my niche.
Did you take part in any high school pranks you can talk about?
No. I was basically a “good guy.”
How do the social dynamics and peer relationships among students today compare to your experiences?
I think the mechanics are the same, but with social media around students are exposed to things (good and bad) that my age group never had to deal with.
Do you have any advice for high school students looking ahead to graduation and beyond?
I would say to pursue an interest—whatever it is and see where it takes you. You can ALWAYS start
over.
What was your favorite school tradition or event when you were a student, and does it still exist today?
I loved the homecoming parade. I don’t think they exist anymore.
Favorite cafeteria food at all three schools:
Pizza.
Final thoughts?
I can truly say I never had a “bad” teacher going through the AAPS. Sure, there were some tough teachers: Ms. Casey, sixth grade homeroom, ex-nun from Boston. Wow, she was tough. But I knew she had my best interest and everyone else’s at heart. My teachers cared, supported, and encouraged me. I am most grateful to every single one of them.
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