3 Legends. 1 Stage.

Super Bowl winning coach Tony Dungy surprised retiring AHS Band and Orchestra Directors Matt Harloff and Dean Westman.

When Avon High School Principal Matt Shockley made the PA announcement that all Band and Orchestra students were to come to the Auditorium at the start of 5th period, nobody knew what was going on. "Is it something good or something bad?" That was the question in the minds of the 650 students who showed up and took their seats.

Although they suspected something was up, Mr. Harloff and Mr. Westman had to wait and see along with everyone else.

A few moments later Mr. Abbey and Mr. Powell took the stage and welcomed Tony Dungy—perhaps the most famous fan of the AHS Band and Orchestra thanks to his relationship with Band Dad Brian Nugent. Even though he had already been at the school for over an hour greeting and signing autographs for a gathered group of parents, AHS staff, and district administrators, he spent several minutes addressing the crowd. He spoke about the incredible success of the AHS Band and Orchestra and encouraged students and staff to continue to maintain the standard of excellence that has been largely attributed to the leadership of Mr. Harloff and Mr. Westman.

We will miss these two leaders and their nearly 50 years of combined leadership at AHS when they retire this summer—not to mention the dozens of Avon educators and support staff who will retire along with them.

Some leadership experts point out that the ultimate mark of success is succession. In Avon Schools, we have the high expectations—along with the deeply passionate, committed, and talented teammates—we need to continue to succeed, but we certainly wouldn't be where we are without legends like Mr. Harloff and Mr. Westman.

Congratulations, Mr. Harloff and Mr. Westman, and thanks for joining us, Coach Dungy!