Following the final Palmer Ridge High School band concert of the year on April 11, during which Band Director Butch Eversole was recognized for his contributions to music in Lewis-Palmer School District 38, school officials unveiled a new Performing Arts Hall of Fame, a long-time goal for Eversole.
As Eversole prepares to retire at the end of this school year, he will do so knowing several of his dreams for the music program have been achieved – with the help of families and backers of the arts at PRHS much like Wendy Ladau, who helped orchestrate the creation and funding of the Hall of Fame.
“I was deeply touched and overwhelmed when Principal Adam Frank and Wendy Ladau unveiled the wall, and the plaque with my name on it. It has been a goal of mine for at least a dozen years to create a permanent display of All-State music students,” said Eversole. “What is truly important to me are the scores of PRHS student names that are listed and honored for their musicianship.”
The wall will honor students selected for the four major All-State music categories, including Band, Orchestra, Jazz Band and Choir. Recipients of the state-wide Bobby G Awards will also be included.
“I did this for (Eversole) simply because he deserves it, and it was an honor to be able to give back,” Ladau said. “He and his family have given so much to our students and community, and they are a true inspiration. Both of my kids were active in the band program with Butch. He has had a strong influence upon them, and we consider the band program as one of the most important parts of their high school experience.”
Record numbers of students at both Palmer Ridge and Lewis-Palmer High School competed and were named to All-State and other honor bands in the 2022-2023 School Year, leading to news coverage and more.
“These are highly competitive honors, for which our students audition and are chosen with all other students across the state of Colorado,” Ladau said.” The students who have achieved these selections will benefit from public recognition, but the school and district will also benefit as the sheer number of students that receive these honors is impressive to say the least.”
Ladau is no stranger to fundraising for PRHS, having already raised funds to purchase a grand piano for the program. Still, Ladau said the Performing Arts Hall of Fame fundraising is not yet complete, as funds are needed to add names, and create a metal sign so the Hall of Fame is easily recognizable.
According to Eversole and Ladau, a key goal is ensuring the community is aware of the strength of the performing arts programs at both high schools, as well as recognizing the experts who help students on their journey to musical success.
“District 38 has a long history of artistic excellence that dates back 40 years. We have been considered a model for other districts, and I feel so fortunate to have been a part of this history,” Eversole said, noting that excellence drew him to the district and drove him to add to its history. “My hope for the next 40 years is that our administration and community will sustain the level of support that has historically been shown so that our students may continue to be the artistic models and leaders throughout Colorado.”