During the dress rehearsal for Morris Hills’ annual winter concert, music educator Mr. Hartsuiker, known to his students as Mr. H, was met with the well-deserved news that he had been named 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year.

Mr. H has taught at Morris Hills for a third of his 24-year teaching career, and in those eight years, has left a remarkable legacy. As Parade Director and director of the Advanced and Freshman Bands, Marching Band, and Jazz Band, Mr. H encourages his students to challenge themselves and motivates them to continue working hard toward their goals.

When he received the news of the award, he said that he was “quite humbly surprised.”

“This selection is one of the most humbling achievements I’ve had in my career, and the announcement was made all the more special as it happened with all the band members,” he said. “The fact that my wife and children were also part of it was the icing on the cake!”

Mr. H knew he wanted to become a high school band director since his freshman year of high school. “Regardless of normal ups and downs in any profession, it’s been such a fun, rewarding, and satisfying experience the last 24 years,” he noted.

Alongside his duties at Morris Hills High School, Mr. H is also completing his third and final year of the Artist Diploma program at Rutgers University. The program concentrates in performance-related study, and four solo recitals and one chamber recital are required for the degree. He described how he participates in a large performing ensemble, chamber ensemble, and private lessons each semester.

Despite his busy schedule, Mr. H never fails to make time for his students. He often works 1-on-1 with students seeking extra help with the repertoire during lunches, and he’s always open to questions.

Senior Harry Tomasco said, “Since my freshman year, Mr. H has been a big inspiration for me, both in band musically and also individually as a person. I’ve been with him in band, jazz band, and marching band, and he has helped me grow in my high school career and helped me become the person I am today.”

“Despite all the times I’ve missed Jazz Band for track meets, Mr. H still welcomes me back the next day with kindness and open arms,” junior Ivory Piskula added. “He teaches in such a humorous and entertaining way that draws the attention of the whole class.”

“My hope is to continue to provide the best educational, musical, and life experiences as I possibly can for all of my students!” Mr. H said. “Whether that’s through guest artists coming in, unique performance opportunities outside of Morris Hills, or simply through a welcoming environment in the band room, my hope is that all of my students get the best experience possible with whatever class or activity they have with me.”

“The band room is often a ‘second home’ for many students, and that’s a responsibility I take seriously!”