Jack Pindell began his teaching career in New Hanover County in 1960,

after graduating from East Carolina College (now East Carolina University.) He was granted a one-year leave of absence to accept an assistantship at ECC to teach trombone while completing a M.A. in music education and administration. After returning to New Hanover County, he taught elementary and junior high bands and assisted at New Hanover High School. He served as the first band director when John T. Hoggard High School opened in 1967. During this time, he also served as the instrumental music supervisor for the county schools. During his tenure at Hoggard High School, his grade VI bands consistently received superior ratings at the NC State Band Contest. He consistently placed high numbers of students in the All-District Band Clinic. He received the NCBA Eastern District Award of Excellence in 1980. He previously served as Chairman of the NCBA Eastern District and Secretary of the NCBA.

Mr. Pindell was an active contest judge and clinic conductor. He served as Supervising Teacher for twenty-five student teachers from ECU and

UNC-W. After retirement from teaching, he was employed by a major music company as Education Director and Road Representative. In his final retirement, Jack is still active in his church, teaching private lessons, volunteering in area schools and playing trombone and trumpet in several combos.

Jack and Julie, his wife of 53 years have a son, two daughters, and six grandchildren. He and Julie also fostered ten foster children. He considered all of the children he taught during his thirty years of teaching as “his kids.” He is affectionately known as “Papa Jack.”

Nominated by Deborah Phillips