The Phoenix Award, which celebrates artistic achievement in Lawrence, was awarded to band teacher Mike Jones this year.
Jones, who was nominated in the Musical Educator category, was chosen by community members.
“I was surprised,” Jones said.
After taking a break during the pandemic, the awards were held for the first time since 2019. The Phoenix Award were separated into 10 categories, the winners of these categories received sun artwork as a physical award created by Toni Brou, which has sentimental meaning behind it.
“She lost a couple of family members really close together in 2000,” Jones said. “And she began creating the suns as therapy for herself.”
Receiving this award was meaningful to Jones and he appreciates getting recognized for his dedication to the Lawrence community.
“I was very humbled to get this from the community,” Jones said. “I had nice moments reflecting on all the students I have taught and all of the wonderful colleagues I have had over the years.”
One of his colleagues, orchestra teacher Mariah Barnett is appreciative of his leadership at LHS.
“His kindness as a person, his dedication as an educator, and his talent as both educator and musician are what make him incredible,” Barnett said. “He brings wisdom and calmness to every day.”
Jones is not only a good teacher but a helpful friend as well, by helping Barnett cover classes, giving professional advice and advocating for the fine arts in school, Barnett is happy that the orchestra and band get to unite.
“Every spring we work together to combine Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Orchestra for a concert in May,” Barnett said. “My students love anytime they get to work with him and the feeling is mutual on my end as well.”
Jones not only has an impact on his fellow teachers but on his students as well. Junior drum major Morgan Moeckly is one of many students who have been influenced by him.
“He’s helped me bounce back from band during COVID,” Moeckly said. “Online band was miserable and felt pointless. I almost dreaded playing in high school because of it. Mr. Jones changed my mind. His charismatic personality every single day and passion for music makes everything so enjoyable.”
Moeckly believes he gives every student a sense of belonging. She feels that his enthusiasm and dedication are just one part of what makes him a great teacher.
“He loves what he does and wants his students to love it, too,” Moeckly said. “A teacher who is as passionate as he is makes it hard not to love what they teach. He encourages everyone and helps them become the best musician they can be.”
By leading the band, sponsoring student council and being a stand-out colleague and teacher, Jones has worked hard to earn this prestigious award.
“I think Lawrence values the arts, and it’s very nice to live in a community that gives recognition to artists and educators of the arts,” Jones said. “If every community would do this, the world would be a different place.”
