By Alison Echeverria-Soto ’26
On Oct. 7, 2024, Derby High School introduced a new teacher to the music department. Nick Ruel has taught in different districts for the past 5 years. He has taught Middle School band, choir, and high school marching band. Now at DHS, he teaches Band, Choir, Drama, Music Appreciation, Comprehensive Learning Center (CLC) music and jazz/pep band.
Many students, including Nicholas Sheridan ‘25, Benjamin Weitzler ‘25, and Saturn Cooper ‘25 were devastated when the previous teacher left the music department to take another job in a different district. Benjamin Weitzler ‘25 stated, “Ruel knows how to teach a band better.” Some students wanted to quit band but stayed for the good of the school, and are now hopeful, about the future with Ruel in place.
When Ruel was being interviewed, they asked if he would like to start a long-term marching band, as he had a lot of prior experience. Ruel stated, “It’s all about what the community wants and what the student body wants.” He does not want to do something if the community and students don’t want to do it.
Ruel wants to make his students feel welcomed and know they have a safe environment when they come into his classroom. He plans to change the room environment to a more cozy and fun classroom. His main goal, however, is spreading the enjoyment of music and leaving a lasting impact on future generations.
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