There’s a new tune coming from the band room as Ms. Sarah Rathert takes over directing the symphonic band. Last year, Mr. Mick Dragoo retired after thirty-two years of teaching, and while many students were sad to see him go, they are also looking forward to a new beginning with Rathert. Rathert previously taught grades 6-12 symphonic band at Bowdle High School. She graduated from Sturgis High School where she then went on to get her bachelor’s degree in music education, with a minor in psychology at BHSU. At the moment Rathert is working on getting her master’s degree in music education.
Along with teaching the symphonic band, Rathert also teaches new classes such as a high school music appreciation, middle school symphonic band, and sixth grade music appreciation. Rathert stated, “One big goal I have is kind of doing more challenging music because in Bowdle they did really well for what they had, but since it was 6th grade all the way up to 12th grade, they couldn’t do super challenging stuff. So, I’m excited now to do more fun music and get out there a little more.” She is taking on many new and exciting challenges, such as marching band and field marching for the homecoming halftime show. When asked about the biggest challenge teachers face, Rathert said, “When I was back at Bowdle, I was K-12 band and choir, so I was doing it all and I think sometimes teachers really struggle finding time to plan things and grade things. I think maybe more preparation time or more help from someone else whether it be another teacher in the building or administration.”
Growing up, Rathert had always wanted to become a teacher because of her mom who also taught. However, it wasn’t until high school when she discovered her passion for music.
In high school she was able to participate as drum major and direct her fellow classmates during pep band. While she was in college, she did the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) competition, where she was ranked the best flute player in South Dakota.