We recently welcomed a new music teacher to our elementary schools, and we’d like to introduce him to our community! Mr. Shaun Baxley joined Union County Public Schools this fall when previous music teacher Mr. Nick Wright transitioned to a new role as our district’s Instructional Technology Coordinator. Mr. Baxley teaches all students in Kindergarten through 5th grade at Morganfield, Sturgis, and Uniontown Elementary Schools. So, needless to say, he’s a busy man!
In his weekly lessons, he focuses on instilling a love for music and a solid understanding of foundational musical elements. Students learn about rhythm, pitch, dynamics, and other music concepts through singing, playing instruments, and participating in musical games.
But he’s also teaching more than music. “My primary goals revolve around nurturing creativity, building confidence, and instilling a robust foundation in musical education,” Mr. Baxley explained. “I aspire to craft dynamic and interactive learning experiences that empower students to express themselves through music and acquire valuable life skills.”
Mr. Baxley is a trumpet player with extensive musical performance experience all around the world. For instance, early in his career, he played with the Memphis Sound Drum Corps, a professional marching band that performed in 20 states from New York to California and everywhere in between! He later performed in Costa Rica and China as a member of Western Kentucky University’s ensembles.
Another interesting fact is that Mr. Baxley is also Staff Sergeant Baxley! Yes, he is an active soldier with the Army Reserve and musician with the 100th Army Band from Fort Knox, Kentucky. He plays trumpet on all missions for the group including performances in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Germany last summer. He was recently promoted to Staff Sergeant and also serves as a Safety Officer and Digital Training Management System (DTMS) Operator.
Before coming to Union County, Mr. Baxley served as an elementary music teacher in Morgan County and as a middle/high school orchestra director in Daviess County. He also directed the Owensboro Symphony Youth Orchestra last year.
Mr. Baxley has enjoyed his start in Union County and is excited to share his passion for music with our students. “My utmost excitement lies in fostering a lifelong love for music in my students” he emphasized. “I aim to cultivate a positive and inclusive musical environment, allowing each child to discover their unique talents and develop a profound appreciation for the art form.”
We’re thankful to have Mr. Baxley in Union County, and we welcome him to our community!
