'Once In A Lifetime' Teacher: Manhattan Beach Hero

MANHATTAN BEACH,CA — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We’re working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This submission comes from Cathy Oh who nominated Joel Carlson of Manhattan Beach. Oh's children are students of Carlson's at Mira Costa High School.

Local hero’s full name

Joel Carlson

Local hero’s home state

California

Local hero’s Patch

Manhattan Beach

How do you know the local hero?

He is the Band Director at Mira Costa High School (teaches both my son and daughter)

What does the local hero do?

Teacher

Why do you believe the local hero should be recognized or honored?

Mr. Carlson has been the Band Director at Mira Costa High School for the last 15 years and has created a classroom that goes beyond just music. He has created an inclusive environment for all students who happen to love music. He not only teaches a full load of classes, he performs a public service for our community. As the only Marching Band & Colorguard in Manhattan Beach, he makes sure his students know the importance of giving back. In the first semester of this school year alone he has used his own time to have his band perform in over 20 events outside of the classroom, supporting our high school, our elementary schools, our community, our veterans, and our local traditions. He is one of those teachers that come around once in a lifetime. He is the type of teacher that his students will remember for years and decades to come. He himself is a father of four, yet, makes sure he gives it all to his students each and everyday. We know teachers do not always hold a high status economically in our nation but us parents know their value. When your child comes home from school each day excited about what they learned with Mr. Carlson, how fun the class was, the amazing music they performed, and cannot wait to go back the next day - this value cannot be measured.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the local hero?

Mr. Carlson's passion for music, for teaching, and for supporting our community is a gift to Manhattan Beach and we are so lucky he chooses to teach at Mira Costa High School.

Thank you for all you do, Joel Carlson!

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Know someone making a difference in town?

Nominate them here.