Grad hangs on to passion for music
Staff writer
Honor student Jayden Spencer’s longtime passion for music was tested by a pandemic this past year.
She has been heavily involved in band at Marion High School as a flutist but dropped out when COVID-19 canceled competitions or moved others online.
“That really didn’t interest me,” said Spencer, who competed in flute at state. The annual trip to the Kansas State Fair also was canceled.
Spencer, who has considered music education, or art and design as possible careers, elected take private lessons. Many others elected to quit.
As the year wore on, she saw fewer familiar faces in the halls this year as students were asked to quarantine or opted for remote learning.
Spencer, who lives with her grandparents, chose that option right before Christmas as cases rose.
“That was my decision and they were supportive,” she said of school administration.
For now, she plans to attend Butler Community College, but has not ruled out Tabor, which also has a good music program. will continue that at least through the end of college,” she said.
Jayden Spencer was incorrectly identified as Jaden Slifer in some early editions. The newspaper apologizes for the error.