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Redwood Elementary School Celebrates the Life of Joel Perry
WEST ORANGE, NJ – “Everyone can sing. Everyone can learn to sing better.” So reads the inscription on the statuette that will be placed in the hallway entrance of Redwood Elementary School in memory of beloved music teacher Joel Perry, who passed away suddenly on Sept. 4 at the age of 63.
The inscription on the guitar-shaped statue reflects Perry’s own words and attitude about music, about teaching, and about his students. He taught at Redwood for 22 years and it was a big part of Perry’s life, talent, and passion. On Nov. 22, students, staff, family and friends of Mr. Perry gathered to celebrate all he had contributed to the West Orange school community.
Perry was a classical guitarist and an accomplished jazz musician, releasing three CDs and working with storied international jazz musicians. In 2016 he was the recipient of the New Jersey Jazz Education Achievement Award.
“His contributions to the school district in the areas of music theory and teaching concepts have impacted and will continue to impact the music program positively for years,” noted Supervisor of Fine Arts Lou Quagliato.
“His fellow musicians had an amazing amount of respect and love for Joel,” Quagliato said, “and he wanted every kid to enjoy music.”
Perry’s widow Eve, his daughter Elizabeth, and his granddaughter Erika attended the celebration along with other members of the family.
“There were so many dimensions to Joel,” explained Eve Perry, “and he’s lived so many lifetimes. We keep finding out more about him everywhere we go.”
In addition to the presentation of the statue, Redwood Art teacher Lisa Schustak discussed the Memory Tree outside the library, where students and staff attached leaves with messages about Perry. Special remarks by teachers Kimya Jackson and Jerry Powers brought tears to the eyes of many. Mrs. Nancy added laughs amid the emotional celebration.
Redwood certainly held a place in Perry’s heart, and the celebration reflected that as students performed some of Perry’s favorite songs, including the Redwood School song and the Kwaanza song (which Perry wrote), Sesere Eeye, Ratalan Bog, Ode to Joy, and Donabis Paceum. The Redwood Alumni Chorus performed “Forever Young,” by Bob Dylan, one of Perry’s favorite musicians.
In addition to the school song, all students and staff sang along to “This Little Light of Mine” as an homage and perhaps a promise to Perry that his light will continue to shine.
“Mr. Perry’s light will shine on for many years to come,” said Interim Principal Heather Carr.
“A man is a success if he gets up in the morning and goes to bed at night and in between does what he wants to do,” declared Bob Dylan, and for Joel Perry, he did just that.
See all the photos from the Celebration of Joel Perry here.
Elizabeth, Erika, and Eve Perry.
Interim Principal Heather Carr hugs Kimya Jackson, who helped organize the event.
Former Principal Barbara Kivlon, and former teachers Anita Crompton and Patti Van Cauwenberge.
The tree created in Mr. Perry's memory.
Former Superintendent Jerry Tarnoff and former Asst. Superintendent Dr. Donna Rando.
Teacher Jess Morano sings "This Little Light of Mine" with staff and students.
PTA member Shawna Roth with the memorial statue.