Lansing USD469 Employee Spotlight: Josiah Ketterman, Lansing Middle School Choir Director
Our "Employee Spotlight" series aims to showcase the unique personalities, talents, and stories that contribute to the success of our district. This section celebrates the incredible individuals who make our Lansing USD469 community thrive.
Josiah Ketterman, Lansing Middle School Choir Director
Question: How long have you worked for Lansing USD469?
Answer: This is my 3rd year.
Question: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the role you have within the school district?
Answer: I teach 6-8th grade choir, assistant direct the MS talent show and spring musical.
Question: What do you enjoy most about your role and the work you do in the school district?
Answer: I enjoy watching the kids build community through choir. Singing is such a vulnerable thing and I get to help the kids navigate through their changing voices. I also simply love choir and I get to share that passion with my students and watch their love of choir grow as well.
Question: What is something unusual about you that most people don't know?
Answer: I can solve a rubiks cube in under 1 minute. I have hiked the great wall of china.
Question: When you're not working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
Answer: I recently have started playing disc golf. I also love playing music with my friends, I play keys and sing.
Question: Could you share a particularly heartwarming or memorable experience you've had while working with students or colleagues?
Answer: My first year here was also my first year teaching choir. My 8th graders were so good to me as I tried new things and took risks. I think through that transparency they also learned to take risks. My 2nd year I had many of those students come back to the Middle School to attend the concerts as audience members. I knew then that I had left an impact on them just like my previous choir teachers had done for me.
Question: What piece of advice would you like to offer to students to help them succeed and make the most of their educational journey?
Answer: Take risks and don't be afraid to make mistakes. This is where growth occurs. Be goal oriented and work to achieve those goals.