Rockridge Music Program

Dear Rockridge Music Parents, Supporters and most importantly Students,

I am writing at this time to let you all know that I will not be returning to the Music Program at Rockridge this September. I was recently offered the position as the head of the Music Department at Langley Secondary School, an opportunity I was not even aware of until long after classes had ended. This has been an incredibly difficult decision, but for a number of reasons it is the right decision for my family and me at this time.

I am very pleased announce that I have been meeting with your new Music Director, Mr. Kevin Shan. Most of you already know him as he worked as a Teacher-On-Call for the music department regularly this year, and he performed on saxophone with the Staff Combo and the Parent/Staff Big Band at this year's Jazz Cafe. With his great musical background and his passion for music education, I am very happy to know he is taking over the baton at Rockridge.

To the parents and supporters:
Thank you for everything you have done for Rockridge Music. It has been a pleasure getting to know so many of you over my time in West Vancouver. As I have said at every concert, your support allows the kids to do what they do so well. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work with these fine young musicians over the last eight years and a special thank you to those of you who went the extra mile to help make it the best experience possible for the kids.

To the students:
I am very sorry that I did not have the chance to tell you in person, but I want you all to know that it has been a privilege to get to know each of you and to have seen you grow both as musicians and as individuals over the last few years. Thank you for your hard work, your dedication, your patience, and your laughter. I will miss you all and I wish you all the best in the coming year. Mr. Shan will do a wonderful job for you and I look forward to hearing about the great things you continue to accomplish as Rockridge Musicians.

If you need to contact me for any reason, I can still be reached at mfollett@sd45.bc.ca for the time being.

Thank you all for making my eight years at Rockridge so special. It has been an honour.

Sincerely,

Mark Follett