Staff Survey - Getting to Know Mr. Ben Lupo

Where did you go to high school and college?

I went to high school at Grosse Pointe North High School in Grosse Pointe Woods, MI and attended Heidelberg University for college.

What grade/s and classes do you teach?

I teach 6-12 choir, 6^th grade general music, History of Popular Music, and History of Western Music.

What are some of the activities or projects you do in your classroom to make learning fun and engaging?

The sixth graders attend a Toledo Symphony Orchestra concert annually to give them a more visual and hands-on experience with orchestral instruments.  I bring my cello in and give students the opportunity to touch and attempt to play a stringed instrument.

Locomotion takes an annual trip to competition/festival.

Glissando participates in OMEA District I Large Group festival and will have a guest clinician to hear and evaluate their work before concert.

What professional and/or student related activities do you participate in addition to teaching?  

I am the 5^th grade musical co-director and High School Musical Co-Director, as well as the Locomotion advisor.  I work with students to prepare for honors choirs and the all-county choir.  In addition, I am working with a few students who have been having academic difficulty to help them improve their grades.

What is the best thing about Montpelier Schools?

The best thing about Montpelier Schools is unquestionably our kids.  I look forward to work every day – it is a joy to help these students discover a love and understanding of music.

As a district we are working hard to save the district money.  What are some ways that you help save money at school?

I post notes and information online, use the choral public domain library for some of my music (to save the district music costs).  I run the sound and set lights for concerts on my own as a volunteer.  I limit my copying as possible and do not ask for mileage reimbursement.  I pay my own membership in my professional organization (OMEA) and saved for the year to be able to attend the state conference, where I learned a great number of new tools I can use in the classroom.