Calhoun High School teacher and band director, John Downs III has retired after 25
years. Downs was given special recognition last night at the Board of Education
meeting. Superintendent Ron Blankenship presented him with a plaque, which read:
"For dedicating your life to the art and science of teaching. For practicing your
profession with compassion and dignity and for holding the well-being of your
students as your primary concern, always."
Downs, a native of Doddridge County, has taught school in Calhoun after a brief stint
in Ritchie County.
An outspoken advocate for music and the arts in public education, he said "I really
believe music makes a difference in peoples lives."
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