When I did my trumpet audition at Arrowhead High School at the end of my eighth grade year, I met Mr. Polancich for the first time; visually he was intimidating, and I was a little afraid of him.  On the first day of my freshman year, I tried my best not to be nervous of Mr. Polancich; but as the week went on, I said to myself, I shouldn’t be afraid of him, he seems like a very nice person, so I relaxed, and I got to know him better over the year.  Having him as my teacher for Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Music Theory, and Conducting throughout my four years of high school has not only changed my life, but has given me more love and compassion for music.  

On the first day of finals (sophomore year), Mr. Polanich sent me an email asking if I would be interested in joining Jazz Band the following year.  During my junior year, Mr. P sent me another: “Would you be interested in taking Music Theory and Conducting class for next year?” I responded “yes” to both, and have found these activities to be rewarding and enjoyable.  I said to myself, wow, this is a teacher that is really compassionate, outgoing, and nice; but most importantly, he cares about a student he likes.

Conducting: My friends were curious as to why I was taking this class.  At first they thought it was about learning how to conduct a train—I laughed so hard I almost cried. Why would Arrowhead offer a class in railroading?  I told them that the class is about learning how to conduct an orchestra.  Being the only student in Mr. Polancich’s conducting class (senior year) changed my life and created memories that I will never forget. I usually practice conducting with Mr. P in the classroom when no one else is around, and I conduct during my band classes and graduation band practice.  This one-on-one time has been invaluable in teaching me skills and boosting my confidence. When I enter the classroom, Mr. P always greets me with a friendly “hello” and then we get right to work. Mr. P is like my father in some ways—he cares about my welfare and he’s a person that I feel comfortable talking to if I feel down.  

I am nominating Mr. Polancich for this award because throughout my four years of high school, I’ve never known another teacher who is as passionate about teaching, or who cares so much about his students.  Three words that would best describe him are compassionate, energetic, and humble. Mr. Polancich works harder than any other teacher here at Arrowhead, and he richly deserves this award.