By Derrick Smith

There are moments in life when something unexpected happens that changes our course. That happened to Brent Andrews when he was younger and helped him to understand the important roles that teachers have.

“I lost both my parents when I was in high school,” Andrews said. “That put things into perspective for me and how much a teacher can really do for their students, not only in the classroom but outside as well.  It was the teachers that went above and beyond to make sure that I was at the very least okay, and the ones who weren’t worried about missing assignments but a student missing the people they called Mom and Dad. It was the genuine connection, love, and compassion that these teachers had for me in my time of need that showed me the path I wanted to take.”

Brent is the Director of Bands at Mangum Public Schools. He teaches sixth grade through twelfth grade, from when they start as beginners to their senior year of high school they make their way through the program and grow as musicians. With band I also give private lessons to students that want to further their Music Education whether it be for auditions for honor bands, solo and ensemble contests, or simply to strive to learn more on their instrument.

There are a lot of moments that Andrews enjoys about being a teacher, and he says that it is hard to narrow it down to one thing.

“I love everything about it,” he said. “From hearing my beginning band students get their first note, to being able to be a part of my seniors last Football game and everything in between. Being an educator is far more rewarding than anything I could have ever imagined or asked for and it’s just my first year. I cannot wait for what the future holds and the journey that lies ahead.”

Though he loves spending time with his students, Andrews also enjoys some down time. When he is not teaching he enjoys kayaking, fishing, playing video games, and spending time with my family and friends.