Teacher Feature: Darryan Gonzales

Darryan Gonzales joins the Lincoln Public Schools this year as the music teacher.

Originally from Four Corners, Farmington, N.M., Gonzales was in band through middle and high school, is a classically trained clarinetist and specializes in jazz saxophone and voice. In addition, she performed in the University of Montana's Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Chamber Chorale, jazz ensembles, and served as Drum Major for two years in the Grizzly Marching Band.

"As a specialist, I'm fortunate to see almost all of our students in Lincoln, from Kindergarten through 12th grade," said Gonzales. "I am also happy to see so many students signing up for music at the secondary level," she added, noting that the Lincoln school didn't have a music program last year.

Gonzales believes this year will be interesting for music because of COVID-19. She said she's looking forward to making music work in the classrooms, despite necessary changes such as socially distancing for everyone's safety, rehearsing with masks and instrument bell covers, disposing of condensation in instruments and cleaning mouthpieces and materials consistently.

"I was drawn to Lincoln for proximity and support for the arts. More importantly, I was drawn here because I knew that this school was in need of a music educator," said Gonzales. "I wanted to be placed where I felt I could make the biggest impact for students, and Lincoln was the perfect fit. It's an honor to bring music back into the school, and I'm fortunate to have the most amazing staff and administration that makes it possible. It's a dream come true!"