Anne Gorman, director of choirs at Canaan Middle School, JAJHS and JAHS has decided to retire after a long career of teaching music. Gorman taught for 29 years–18 of those here at Alder.

    Gorman’s impact on the Alder community will always be remembered through her dedication to directing the High Society Show Choir, JAHS musicals, and, of course, all of the choirs starting in fifth grade.

    Gorman’s favorite aspect of teaching was getting to be around kids. “I love the community at Alder. The students work hard and it’s fun to teach kids who actually want to learn.”

    Junior Maddie Conley, a member of the High Society Show Choir, reflected on her years spent with Gorman: “I’m sad that she’s leaving. She has been such a great teacher and mentor.”

    Band director Justin Hennig, who worked closely with Gorman in many different projects, described how tough it will be to lose her as a colleague. “We pushed each other to be better teachers.” He will miss having her as a friend during the school day.

    Alder alumna Emily Sollars was actively involved in both the show choir band and the 2016 musical, The Little Mermaid, as the stage manager. She now studies Instrumental Music Education at The Ohio State University and is also a member of the Ohio State Marching Band. Sollars gives her best wishes to Gorman: “I hope that she enjoys her retirement. She is leaving a legacy and some hard shoes to fill.” Sollars also mentioned how proud she is to have worked with Gorman so closely.

    Thank you for all you’ve done for our school and our students, Mrs. Gorman!