Mr. Crook has been Brien McMahon’s choir teacher and drama club director since the beginning of the 2021-2022 school year. Through these years he has put on 4 productions: Once Upon a Mattress, Puffs, Chicago, and 12 Angry Jurors, as well as several choral concerts. Each of these experiences has been truly incredible and each a unique experience. However, as students have recently learned, Crook will be leaving McMahon on December 13 to pursue a new job as the Arts director for the district of Stratford.
Mr. Crook has made a long-lasting impact, not only for me but for hundreds of students. Here is what some of them have to say about it:
“One of the most encouraging and inspiring directors I have ever had the privilege of working with.” – Zachary Young, Class of 2025
“He was a great teacher and was great to his students after Acari left and we didn’t have a teacher. Him coming meant a lot and he rebuilt the choir and drama departments.” – Madison Guilik, Class of 2023
“Mr. Crook has been such a powerful and amazing teacher at McMahon. He has made an influence on students and staff, including myself. We will all miss him, but we are also very happy for him and his accomplishments in his career. Much love and good wishes to him in the future!” – Grace Sanders, Class of 2025
Sebastian Reinoso (Bash Rei, class of 2026) was particularly conflicted by Mr. Crook’s departure, so much so that his word choice is not able to be included in this article, but it is certain that he has loved his time spent in Mr. Crook’s classroom.
Throughout our time together, the students of the music and drama departments have made so many memories with Mr. Crook. It has been such a pleasure to be able to work with him for the past 2 ½ years.
I believe I speak for all of his students when I say,
We are so glad for the experiences that he has provided for us
We are sad to see him go but so glad to know that he is making a difference for thousands of other kids the way that he did for us.
And we wish him the best of luck with his new job!
