A Golden Opportunity: Celebrating Excellence in our Band Program

Sometimes, inspiration comes from unlikely places. While you’d imagine most band directors spend their free time at concerts or practicing their favorite instruments, one of Dr. Rifkind’s hobbies is buying and selling gym equipment on Facebook Marketplace. Over Thanksgiving break, while scrolling through listings, a gold-colored music stand in immaculate condition popped up for $20. He bought it on a whim. What came next has become one of the best new traditions in our band program.

“A lightbulb went off in my head, and I thought that it could be used for some sort of incentive for the kids,” Dr. Rifkind shared. It stands out because the other music stands are all matte black. So, the person who wins the award naturally stands out amongst their peers.”

And just like that, the Golden Music Stand Award was born. Perfectly aligned with middle school’s “Gold Vibes Only” theme this year, Dr. Rifkind selects a standout student of the week. The criteria say a great deal about what we value most at All Saints’:

“The award is not necessarily given to the best player in the group. It’s given out to a student who goes above and beyond what is normally expected,” Dr. Rifkind said. “For instance, one student emailed me several times to meet up to better understand something. That sort of initiative is something I’d like to celebrate. The student is also a great citizen in class and always turns in their best work.”

Winners receive a certificate and a 5x Gold Card—a recognition of how important the achievement truly is. The golden stand sits at the front of the room, and the student who earns it gets special recognition all week. It’s a beautiful symbol: you are seen, you are celebrated, and your effort matters here.

Dr. Rifkind also launched a "Scales Race" this year, challenging students to complete all 12 major scales and a chromatic scale. First place in each grade earns lunch with Dr. Rifkind; second and third place earn a sweet treat.

The race was designed to run through May, but multiple students have already crossed the finish line. That is not a problem. That is exactly the point. When students are motivated, when the goal feels achievable, and the reward feels real, they surprise you.

There is something cohesive and affirming about a school-wide culture of recognition—one where effort and character are named and celebrated in ways that students can see and feel. Dr. Rifkind’s program is a wonderful example of a teacher who saw an opportunity—quite literally on a Facebook Marketplace listing—and turned it into something that reflects our values every single week and celebrates our students.