By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

“I’ve been in lots of different middle and high schools, but the Thompson kids are some of the most talented and dedicated music students I’ve seen”, said Bo Esposite, who is completing his internship at Thompson High School.

After attending Corner High School, where he played French horn, he went to Wallace State in Hanceville and then transferred to UAB. His current instrument of choice is the trumpet, since jazz is his favorite type of music.

Last Friday, the Thompson High School band put on its annual holiday concert. It was fantastic, as usual, but when Esposite directed, the kids all went wild with clapping and cheering.

I think our quiet, mild-mannered director was a little embarrassed, but it was so uplifting to see our youngsters be so supportive.

I talked to three of the students and the comments went from “He’s so understanding and supportive,” and “He really cares about us,” to “He’s just cool with us.”

On Dec. 15 Esposite will walk for that coveted university diploma. With immediate needs of a job and insurance, Esposite will then get his chance to create his own spot somewhere.

“The good life to me is that, even as a beginning teacher and director, I have been a part of leading students toward their goals and future successes. My heart really is with the Thompson students. They are so close and have such a drive to push for excellence,” said Esposite.

I was told by Jon Bubbett, head band director, that even though the internship did not officially start until mid-August, Esposite showed up at the very first practice (in the 100-degree heat of July) and never missed a single practice.

Brutal heat, long practices, great personality, talent and rapport with the students….sounds like a dedicated teacher to me.

THS is in the process of raising $70,000 to replace the old, frayed early 1990’s uniforms. Support this effort as our Marching Southern Sounds deserve nothing but the best. For more info contact Bubbett at THS.