Dedicated Educator. Published Author. Juke Box Hero.
Most Likely to Think Before He Speaks
If experience is the best teacher, Lance H. would get an A+. After 20 years as a High School band director, an additional 10 as a Middle School principal, and raising three children of his own, he’s an expert in education. He’s also spent 60-plus years as a professional musician, playing in all kinds of groups from rock ensembles to big bands to Mexican dance troupes.
Born in Kansas, Lance’s family moved to Arizona when he was four, where he discovered his deep love of music in fourth grade. Though his mother wished he’d pursue a different field, music prevailed as his chosen path. And the route has been paved with success.
As a high school senior, he and his friends formed a rock and roll band that gained local fame. They printed a few records, were featured in Arizona juke boxes, and were regaled as a big deal for a few years. The band soon dispersed, but lasting notoriety was eventually found by Lance’s band mate’s sister—Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner Linda Ronstadt.
Lance transitioned from topping the charts to teaching in the classroom and eventually running his own school. A dedicated educator, he recognized the power that adults can have in shaping young lives, so he wrote a book to try to ensure it’s the right kind of impact. The book, edited by his son, was recently published to help teachers remember to be intentional with their words to avoid lasting harm.
“We all remember the things people say off-handedly that affect our lives. Even the smallest words can have a big impact,” said Lance. “My advice? Ignore what bugs you. Don’t be evil. And always remember to be kind.”