"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."