Audra Harmon, the Fair Grove Music teacher, Choir director, and the instructor of the Color Guard, has been working at the Fair Grove school district for the last 12 years.
Harmon explained that most people get to only see the highlighted parts of her job, but not her everyday activities. “The majority of my job is listening to the same thing over and over and over again, finding ways to help students grow as musicians and as people, and setting high expectations for the quality of the performances that we share with the community.”
Natalie Palomo, the Band Director, described her coworker Harmon as a very friendly, helpful, and fun teacher, whom students can trust.
Palomo explained that Harmon was the first person she got to meet when she was hired. Immediately she thought of her as a very friendly, and welcoming person. Palomo stated, “She took me out to lunch and filled me in on what the band looked like, how the school worked, and just made me feel welcome in my first job.”
Maddox Dodd (11), described Harmon as one of his favorite teachers, Dodd stated, “She is so patient, and helps build our skills as not only singers, but students and even people. The love and care she has shown all of us, even when we are just aggravating her, is amazing.”
Dodd continued, “The impact she has had in my life has completely changed its course and I thank her so much for being herself.”
Lucas Engel (12), stated that his favorite thing about Harmon is her ability to have fun while getting things done. He has too many good memories of her to be able to pick only one, and has enjoyed choir since 3rd grade.
Harmon has stated she considered herself very blessed these last 12 years to be able to to work with some amazing people, who have helped shape her into the teacher she is today.
Harmon explained that she decided to work at Fair Grove for several reasons. She stated, “When I was starting to interview for positions, I knew one thing I wanted to find was somewhere I could call home.” Harmon continued, “I wanted to find a group of people who would help support not only my program but also me as a new teacher. When I left the interview, I called my mom, and the first words I said were, ‘I found my home.’”
