Recipient: Robert Houghton

Robert has been teaching music to high school students for 15 years.  Presently he teaches voice and instrumental music at Galt Collegiate.

Robert is committed to doing the best for the kids and having the kids do their best. He notes that every student has a different best and that best needs to be discovered. Robert said that it is so important that his students know that he cares about them. As a music teacher he may teach a student every year of their high school career. He therefore knows them better than most teachers so can see early when something is wrong. He is always keeping an eye on them to make sure they are okay.

Outside of the classroom Robert is a published composer and the conductor at St. Andrews. He believes that his students will do better when he is learning and seeking to reach his personal potential. For him, there are always new possibilities, personally and as a teacher.

Robert was nominated by some of his students.  Gwynedd (Gwyneth) wrote:

Mr. Houghton constantly gives to his students.  He gives up his lunch hours and time before and after school to conduct choirs, bands and ensembles.  He works hard to ensure that all the groups he works with have places to sing and play, be it competitions, festivals, concerts or music nights.  Mr. Houghton’s time commitments do not end there.  He is always available for a chat and has been known to counsel students about their plans for the future.  This type of support is not just extended to current students.  When I was making a decision to switch my major to music, he took the time to write me and give me an accurate perspective about where this decision would take me. 

Mr. Houghton influenced my decision to study music not only because he is an excellent teacher, but also because he is a very talented musician himself.  I have profound respect for him as both an individual and a teacher.