February 20, 2020 Gary Fagan 1210 Red Pine Count Crozet, VA 22982 434-825-2597 “To Whom it May Concern, 11am pleased to wite this ete of reference for Mr. James McKenzie as he is applying fora musi instructor Position in your School district. | had the pleasure of supervising Mr. McKenzie during his student teaching placement at Bulors Schoo! in Chalotesvile. Virginia, have had the opportunity to observe him in the iasszoom several times teaching instrumental music and hope my comments willbe useful 0 you. ‘Mr, Kokenzie served in an inner-city schoo, which has faced many academic and behavioral challenges for several years. Getting many ofthese students to value band class and focus on their instruction is often Scull and planning effectively isa mustin this environment. While itis not an easy situation for a new teacher to experience, Mr. McKenzie handled is duties wih confidence and eftective practices. While working with Mi MeKenzie, I Tound him wiling to discuss strengths and weaknesses and receive Constuctve critcism with a mature atttude. My meetings wih him have been very productive and he becomes an active participant inthe discussions about the classes | have observed. His wilingness to implement suggested stategies and incorporate them into his teaching 's commendable. He isa fine ‘musician and teacher and has the desire 1o provide meaningful learning opportunites for students of very ‘verse backgroundss in order that they may improve thelr skis. | Yee his records and program of study atthe university speak for themselves. In aditon, he is reliable anc has @ determined work ethic He is also very neat in his appearance. | fel he will quickly lear the skits ‘needed to become a tine teacher. | am nopetul that my comments have been helplu and applicable tothe poston for which he is applying. you would tke to speak with me personaly ori you have any questions pertaining 1 his qualiteatons, lease fe! tree to call me at 434-823-2997 and | will be glad to give any assistance | can ‘Thank you very much, Sincerely, Gary Fagan University Supervisor ‘James Madison University Harisonburg, Viginia smal ~ gniagans “gma om of fagangh@jmu edu IDUCATION SUFPORT CENTER 5:05 COLLEGE OF EDUCATION