For this edition of the Livin’ The CGS Teacher Life series, we are looking in on Mr. Babb. This young man has been a vibrant member of the Grizzly family for two years. Mr. Babb is our Director of Bands and teaches Middle School and High School Band and Music Theory. Mr. Babb is a Burlington native that has returned to his roots and making a huge impact at CGS.

Where did you attend college and what types of jobs have you held?

I went to Appalachian State University and majored in K-12 Music Education with a concentration in Instrumental Music. My involvement in campus life largely centered around the music programs and clubs, the marching band, and my fraternity. I also worked in the University Housing system. My favorite college memory would have to be the morning that I hiked up “Beacon Heights” with a group of friends to watch the sunrise on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It was a clear night and it seemed like you could see all of the stars in the world above you when you made it to the top. Before the sun rose, you could also see the Charlotte skyline in the distance from almost 2 hours away! I have not pursued further education since receiving my bachelors, but intend on doing so in the future.

How long have you worked in education? Is teaching your first profession? What other jobs have you held?

Teaching is my first profession, and I have almost completed my second year of teaching. Before graduating college, I worked in a restaurant, an auto parts store, and various positions in University Housing at Appalachian State.

What are your favorite hobbies, books, foods, places to vacation, etc?

Hobbies: Since COVID, I have found a lot of enjoyment in sitting down to play video games with friends online. Some live near here, and there are others who are all over the state. I built my own computer over the summer break and set aside a couple of evenings each week to meet up with them to play. I’ve found that it is a great way to stay connected and wind down! I also enjoy learning new instruments, watching classic rock concerts with my family, and “taste testing” different types of ice cream. : )

Vaction: Anywhere where there is mountains! The beach is great as well, but you can’t beat the view of a mountain range.

Books: I enjoy fiction, autobiographies, and historical books. I’m currently reading “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho.

What drives you as an educator? What achievements are you most proud of in your career?

Definitely working with the students. They are the best part of the job! Nothing beats seeing a student succeed at a section of some music that they have been working on improving for a while. I compare the teamwork of the band to the teamwork of other organizations – we come together as separate parts to make a whole product, and I strive to encourage each student to do their best and have a share in what we create. The students at Clover Garden do a great job with this.

Achievements: I am proud to say that I am a finalist for Beginning Teacher of the Year for the state of North Carolina.

What is your best advice for students? 

Always have a growth mindset! Everything that you learn builds on itself. It’s important to know how to do something, but the true test comes when you put it into practice. There will be mistakes that you encounter when putting something new into practice, such as learning new music, learning how to march, or learning a new instrument. It’s how you respond to these challenges that will determine your success in the future. Don’t give up and keep trying to find new methods that work for you in order to reach your goals.

Fun Fact

I was the senior class vice president in high school. My campaign speech was a rap based around the tune of “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice!

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