Ruben Modesto is getting lots of recognition as band director at John H. Pitman High School. Modesto is among five finalists in Northern California for the 2013 Comcast SportsNet All-Star Teacher Award.
In its seventh year, the All-Star Teacher Award recognizes middle and high school teachers in Northern and Central California for dedication to their students and significant presence within their respective communities.
“I feel excited and humbled to be recognized for this award,” said Modesto. “I’m amazed to be given this opportunity by putting Pitman on the map.”
Nomination forms were mailed to over 200 Northern and Central California schools and were available online at Providentcu.org and at all Provident Credit Union branch locations. Many teachers were nominated by peers, students, parents and principals, and the finalists were chosen by a panel of community leaders.
The winner of the All-Star Award will be announced on June 19 at an on-field ceremony prior to the San Francisco Giants game at AT&T Park and live during Comcast SportsNet Bay Area’s telecast of Giants Pregame live. The winner will receive $20,000 for his or her respective school.
“If I get selected for this award I would like to use the money in programs and services where our students can greatly benefit from,” said Modesto. “I would also like a portion to go to our music program.”
In his 13 years of being an educator, Modesto has taught many different music classes, currently teaching classes such as ensemble, symphonic band, concert band, jazz band and color guard. As band director, he runs the school’s marching and pep bands, which perform at home football and basketball games and concert competitions. In 2012, the band was invited by Governor Jerry Brown to participate in the 2012 National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C.
In addition to band, he has been known to break dance in dance skits with the students and at Pitman High School rallies.
Members of the public can vote for the 2013 All-Star Teacher by texting their vote to 82653 or voting online at CSNBayArea.com/allstarteacher2013 through June 2.
“Let’s get the word out there and vote,” said Modesto.
