About Mr. Stabe

Don's Story:

I grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of two hard-working parents, one enduring 42 years at an entry level job for Sears and Roebuck, and one a machinist for 30 years with the same company. Together they pastored a small mission church during my entire childhood, giving the greatest gift they could give to the community and to their congregation..themselves! I learned so much watching them serve others with such dedication and selflessness.

My arrival to them was a very exciting surprise. I was not expected to be born, as I was a divine miracle to my parents due to my mother's medical condition. During my early developmental years, they watched intently for the one significant gift that they could give back to others through my life.

It was an early discovery of my musical talent at the piano that gave them the incentive to ensure that I had the best lessons and tutoring they could afford while teaching me the valuable lessons of servant leadership. I was the very first in my extended family to attend college and worked diligently over 15 years to complete my two existing degrees and my near-completion of my Masters in Education.

My personal gifts range from the playing of classical and jazz piano styles to conducting and composing of orchestral and choral works and directing musical theater. My degree in Music Composition allows me the skills to conduct, write, arrange, and shape performances for all ages.

I love the sheer adventure of finding raw talent in children as it is first discovered, and then mold it into something that the student will be proud of. This discovery boosts their educational possibilities through high school and college, and they quickly learn to be passionate and work hard, while discovering their true self-esteem while they are young.

I could never repay the great gift given to me, enjoying the sharing of my life with children through a robust career in ministry and in secular work. I have worked with mayors of cities, youth symphonies, national nonprofits, recording artists and the like, bringing the incredible gift of music to young learners and adults alike.

My family is a huge support outside and INSIDE the classroom when possible. They work on decor, sets, costumes, gifts, embroidery and more! My wife Sheryl of 38 years is an amazing support, as well as my mother-in-law Gloria and sister-in-law Linda, are always helping behind the scenes! You'll see them on campus from time to time, lending a helping hand as well as my kids! I have a daughter Marissa who is an amazing artist and our 5-year-old grandbaby Noah. My son Bryce is marrying his 5th grade sweetheart Hillary on September 30th! WooHoo!

It is my pleasure to serve at Rennell Elementary, and I look forward to the exciting development of young talent that will one day WOW the families now, and then even the country someday, with their budding gifts of leadership, artistic endeavors, and community service.

During our first few year together we have been rehearsing the basics of music performance and simple composition, keyboard skills, as well as dance and choreography, and we have explored the historical American Music Theater, as well as its international counterparts.

The year will be full of special performance times and opportunities for soloists and small groups, from lunch concerts to festival concerts. Also. those who play instruments, drums, recorders, keyboards, who dance, and can sing will enjoy involvement in performances both at school and in our community.