After honing his craft for nearly three decades, Jeff Zupfer, also affectionately known as Mr. Z to his students, has been making waves in the realm of education at Normandale Hills Elementary School. Since 1995, when he traded aspirations of high school choir direction for the arguably more whimsical world of elementary music education, Zupfer has touched the lives of countless young minds. According to a recent feature by Bloomington’s official website, he said, “Fate brought me here, and I have no regrets.”
His contributions go beyond the usual curriculum as he infuses social-emotional learning into his teachings through original songs. These pieces, addressing themes like mindfulness and gratitude, are not just entertainment. At monthly school rallies, performed by eager young voices, they serve as the cultural glue of the school, reminding everyone of the values that hold their community together. As Zupfer himself articulated, “I try to make sure every kid feels like they have a place.” This commitment to inclusive education recently earned him accolades in the form of the Inclusive Educator Award from Intermediate District 917.
Zupfer’s fervor for music spills over the bounds of the classroom into the broader community. Not content to merely educate within the school’s walls, he also engages with the music community through MetroNOME Brewery in St. Paul. In an endeavor that harmonizes with his educational values, part of the proceeds from this spot go towards funding music lessons for underprivileged children. Keeping up with digital trends, Mr. Z also maintains a YouTube channel, ensuring his students, families, and even his former students stay tunefully connected to his engaging projects…