On May 6th, the Meridian Band Room was dedicated to Mary Jo West who taught band at Meridian from 1997-2025.
Three people gave speeches: Kathleen Tysse, a school board member, Aiden Harper, a former student and West herself. In all of their speeches, they mentioned the impact that West has had on the Meridian community.
“Ms. West fosters talent in all of her students,” Harper commented. “Ms. West will certainly be missed at Meridian.”
The band room was dedicated to Ms. West because of her dedication to the Meridian Band community for 29 years and the lasting impact she has made.
“The meaning of the Mary Jo West band room was to ensure that future students will know her story and be inspired by her example every day,” Tysse stated. “To thank you for your work service, your passion and your dedication.”
Many of West’s former students, including some who have already graduated, attended the ceremony.
“I see [my former students], they go to college. They return doing incredible things, absolutely incredible things,” West commented.
West’s coworkers and friends were also at the ceremony.
“My name may be on this room, but what truly matters is something far greater,” West stated. “It’s about every student who dares to try. It’s about every lesson that’s learned from music.”
