10/20/2023 -
John Mayer, a music teacher at Piner High School, was named the Sonoma County Teacher of the Month for October 2023.
The recognition, which highlights educators who go above and beyond for their students, was announced on Friday, Oct. 20, during the high school’s homecoming rally. Roughly 1,500 students, teachers, and school staff filled the high school’s gymnasium with cheers as Mayer accepted the award. Piner High Principal Andrea Correia and Santa Rosa City Schools Superintendent Anna Trunnell both attended the rally.
Mayer has worked at the school for two years, teaching classes ranging from introduction to guitar and concert choir to digital recording. His students range from grades 9 to 12.
"Thank you, I'm shocked," Mayer said after he received the award. "I just really appreciate it. (My students') kind words just mean so much to me."
The Sonoma County Office of Education runs the Sonoma County Teacher of the Month program in partnership with Community First Credit Union, as well as Hot 101.7, and Froggy 92.9 — where nominations for stellar teachers are solicited from families and community members via on-air ads.
Winners are awarded a $500 classroom supply gift card from Community First Credit Union, as well as a plaque, flowers, and balloons.
Several of the more than three dozen nominations Mayer received noted his supportive and respectful attitude when working with students, regardless of their musical ability.
“Mr. Mayer's enthusiasm is infectious, and he has this unique way of making even the most challenging musical concepts seem approachable,” said one of the submissions. “He truly brings out the best in all of us and has ignited a lifelong love for music in so many of his students.”
Dr. Amie Carter, Sonoma County superintendent of schools, said the comments made in support of Mayer were demonstrative of the powerful impact that music education can have on the lives of students.
“Mr. Mayer shows us the magic that educators can create when they build supportive environments that foster creativity and encourage our students to take risks,” Carter said. “I send Mr. Mayer my most sincere congratulations for being named the Sonoma County Teacher of the Month for October.”
Mayer is the first teacher to be awarded the Sonoma County Teacher of the Month for the 2023-24 school year. Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond for their students? Nominations for this program can be submitted at www.sonomacountyteacher.com, or via Froggy 92.9 or Hot 101.7.
