Hays CISD Parents, Students Pay Tribute To Band Director

“Thank you ALL for doing this for me. I am beyond thankful for all of the outpouring of Love. I have truly loved this community for these 35 years in Hays CISD,” Gerdes said.

On the evening of Friday, December 21, about 125 former and current students of legendary Hays Consolidated Independent School District Band Director, Leroy Gerdes, gathered to pay a surprise tribute to him through music, gifts, and accolades.

This incredible surprise was organized by a group of grateful parents and students to thank Mr. Gerdes for the 40+ years he has dedicated to the teaching of music to the students, 35 of which were students in Hays CISD.

Mr. Gerdes issued the following special message of gratitude.

“Thank you ALL for doing this for me. I am beyond thankful for all of the outpouring of Love. I have truly loved this community for these 35 years in Hays CISD. The students, parents, teachers, administration, school board, and community members make this a truly wonderful and unique place that my family has made Home for all these 35 years. I Love you All… Love you, Bands!”

In other news, joy was surely in the air on the last school day before Christmas break as Santa paid an unforgettable visit at the Buda Elementary School PPCD classes of Kristen de los Santos and Amanda Giles.

The two consecutive classes both turned out packed houses, with thrilled (ok, a few were a little uncertain) students getting their memorable one-on-one time with, as he’s known in some parts, Kris Kringle.

Whatever you call him, the aura of this incredibly warm and welcoming gentleman, on this day accompanied by his equally warm spouse, was undeniable, drawing squeals of delight everywhere he went, and accommodating all comers with a hug and a kind word.