I first met Jeffery Moss, the choir director and the music analysis teacher at Azle Junior High South, in 7th grade when I joined the UIL One Act team. But, I truly got to know him over my 8th grade year in his Metallica to Mozart class (which I could not recommend enough) and as the stage manager for the musical he helped direct. Though one was definitely less stressful than the other (hint: the one with fewer voice cracks).

First off, as a teacher, Mr. Moss is phenomenal. He is truly one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. I have never seen a class so engaged, excited and eager to learn as those in his Metallica to Mozart, Choir or Rock to Bach classes.

From confidence building to analysis, his classes genuinely teach students so much. His Metallica to Mozart class taught me, and so many others, that it’s okay to voice your opinion, thought or analysis, even if it’s wrong. That you don’t have to be perfect, you just have to be brave and try.

Beyond just being an incredible teacher, Mr. Moss is also one of the kindest, funniest people I’ve ever met. There was never a day that passed by that he didn’t make me laugh or lend an ear when a student needed to vent. But, while he was always kind, he was firm when needed. He pushed both his students and theater kids to be the best they could and gave them wake-up calls when they needed it.

To be frank, when I was Mr. Moss’s student, I was going through a very difficult time in my life. But, there was never a single day that I wasn’t excited to go to his class and rehearsal because he made my day every time I talked with him. My moments with him, both in school or for theatre, are some of the best memories I have.

Mr. Moss is one teacher I’ll never forget, and, if I could, I would retake his class a million times. If you have the incredible opportunity to have him as a teacher, take it, or I’ll be there stealing your seat.