CLOVER, S.C. – Clover High School principal Rod Ruth continues to be awarded for his work leading Blue Eagle Nation as he was recently selected to receive the South Carolina Music Educators Association (SCMEA) Honor Administration Award.

The award is given to an administrator who has been recognized by members of the music education community as a leader in supporting students’ music development through various means, including direct personal involvement in school music programs.  This award is a celebration of administrators across all music disciplines and all levels of education in South Carolina. 

Ruth was nominated locally by Mrs. Courtney Wyatt, Clover’s Associate Director of Bands, and he received support from current and past presidents of SCMEA, including Mr. Joe Gulledge.  He will be presented with the award at SCMEA’s annual professional development conference held at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center on Friday, February 3.

Ruth’s support of the music programs at Clover High School is quite evident to the community. Most recently, he and his family appeared in the Choraliers Christmas concert. He also conducted “Sleigh Ride” to conclude the winter concert for the Bands of Clover. 

Earlier this school year, Mr. Ruth was named SCASA Principal of the Year as he continues to show why he is highly respected throughout the state of South Carolina. 

Quotes:

Rick Langdale, Director:

“Mr. Ruth has made it evident from the first time I met him that he wants the students of Clover to experience the best opportunity.  Being a former band student himself, he understands the hard work, value, and many other virtues that music education teaches beyond the notes and rhythms.  After a few minutes with him, you will feel his passion for students, for education, and the performing arts.  It is an honor to be on his team at Blue Eagle Nation and I am so glad that others statewide are joining us in celebrating his leadership.”

Courtney Wyatt, Associate Director of Bands:

“As a Clover Alum, I can attest to the priority that Clover School District has made music education in the curriculum for all grade levels in our amazing community.  From my earliest memories, to the most life-changing performances, I believe I have experienced the best music education possible in our state and the country.  Being an educator under the leadership of Mr. Ruth for the majority of my time as Associate Director, I have always felt supported, affirmed, and empowered to create the same life-changing experiences I experienced as a student.  The future will continue to be bright as our program, and the other fine and performing arts programs at Clover continue to be led by Mr. Ruth!“

Ryan Hall, Director of Percussion & Associate Director of Bands:

“Mr. Ruth is the principal that hired me as the Associate Director of Bands and Director of Percussion.  He has been beyond supportive of the vision of the percussion program, the vertical alignment of our program, and continues to put the arts in the center of our curriculum at Clover.  We are excited that he is getting the recognition that he deserves statewide for his leadership.”