05/14/2026
Congratulations to Ludington Bands Director Mr. Kuczynski on being named the MSBOA District I Teacher of the Year! We are proud of you!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Kuczynski Named MSBOA District I Teacher of the Year
Director of Ludington Bands Keith Kuczynski has been named the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA) District One Teacher of the Year for 2026. Kuczynski was selected to represent the District as their nominee for the State Teacher of the Year for the 2026-2027 school year. District One of the MSBOA encompasses Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Missaukee, Oceana, Osceola, and part of Muskegon counties across west and northern Michigan.
Nominator Stephanie Purvis, band director for Hesperia Public Schools, stated, “As a teacher, I have observed that he strives for excellence in all ensembles and has provided a well-rounded program to all ages with camaraderie and musical competition. His upbeat personality and energy is a testament to his character and stamina, no matter what life might offer. His students crave his light and attitude, while reflecting his dedication in their work ethic and playing abilities. All of this occurs in a rural area of Michigan, where private lessons are rare and unavailable to his students without substantial travel or cost. A number of his students have pursued higher education in music as a direct result of his influence, despite these challenges.”
Kuczynski has led the Ludington Bands since 2012. During his tenure at the helm of the Ludington Band program, the Ludington Jazz Ensemble has earned the Central Michigan University Most Outstanding Class B Band in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. He has taken the Wind Symphony to perform in Washington, D.C. at the WWII Memorial and performances in 2014, 2016 and 2023 at the Chicago Field Museum.
Both the Ludington High School and O.J. DeJonge Middle School Bands have received consistent “Superior” ratings since Mr. K’s arrival. Kuczynski, alongside drumline leader and LES 5th grade teacher Zack Korienek, leads dynamic marching ensembles and one of the largest pep bands in West Michigan.
In addition to his duties as the Director of Ludington Bands, Mr. Kuczynski also performs with the Westshore Community College Jazz Ensemble 1 and co-directs the Jazz Ensemble 2, which includes area high school students, community college students, and older community members. He is an accomplished saxophonist who plays gigs regularly to inspire his students to continue their love of instrumental music.
Kuczynski is married to Amanda and together they have one son, Luke, who attends Ludington Elementary School.
The Ludington Area School District is proud of this incredible accomplishment!
