Orchestra teacher Jeanette Kuhn is leaving Chapman at the end of the school year after 12 years at Chapman to spend more time with her family.

Senior Krystal Lopez spent many years in the classroom with Kuhn.

“It’s the best thing she could do for herself,” Lopez said. “I’m upset that she’s leaving, but I am very happy for her because she’s always wanted a baby.”

Kuhn’s decision to move on didn’t come easily, especially given how seriously she takes her job as an educator.

Kuhn strived to make students’ days brighter, make them feel loved and give them a safe space.

“I want them to know they have a cheerleader because not everybody has that at home,” Kuhn said.

Kuhn made a significant difference in the orchestra program, focusing on the music and talent itself.

“At the beginning, Mrs. Hall would send me an email and talk about how she dreaded going to school assemblies because she didn’t want to hear the orchestra, and now she likes them,” Kuhn said.

The orchestra has continued to grow in numbers under Kuhn’s leadership.

Kuhn’s impact was not just felt inside the classroom.

Senior Gwenivere Brown took private lessons with Kuhn from age 12 to 15.

“It really helped me improve,” Brown said. “My pitch and finger pattern was awful, so she really helped me with the private lessons.”

As Kuhn prepares for her final bow, students have emphasized the profound effect she’s had on them.

“She’s made me want to continue orchestra even though I could’ve done other stuff with my free time,” junior Matthew Niblack said. “She’s made me want to continue practicing and get better.”