Middle School's New Music Wing To Be Named for Former Director

Hauppauge Middle School's new music suite will be named in honor of a former teacher and staff member.

The Board of Education has unanimously voted at their Sept. 20 meeting to dedicate the new music wing in honor of a former music director and teacher, Joseph R. Herbison, who taught music in Hauppauge Public Schools for more than 30 years.

"I have heard stories of him for years and I think it's about time," said Board President Geri Richter.

The request to dedicate the new music wing in honor of a former staff member was a request from Josephine Gallarello, the district's current director of fine and performing arts.

"Dr. Herbison, for 32 years, was our director of music. He was integral to the growth of the program here in Hauppauge," Gallarello said.

There are still many teachers within Hauppauge Public Schools who were hired or worked with Herbison who supported the dedication in his name, according to Gallarello.

The middle school's new music suite was the largest single construction project under the school's $28 million renovation project, measuring 7,180 square feet. It includes a new band room with instrumental storage, a new chorus room, a new choir rehearsal room, teacher offices and additional storage space. Students can also use one of four sound-proof practice suites during their free time.

A formal dedication of the music suite will be scheduled by the Board of Education at a future meeting.