Archive: Around Town

Cindy HowellCindy Howell is our March Star.  Appropriate, because even after retiring she continues to work with Lansing students.  She directed this month's production of "Seussical the Musical," and has been seen working on other performing arts events and even defending performance spaces at school board meetings. 

Cindy is one of the first people I met when I moved to Lansing almost 20 years ago.  I was impressed then and continue to be wowed by her energy, intelligence, positive attitude, enthusiasm... and did I mention energy?!  -- Editor

Her good friend Ann Short wrote this tribute:


“Teacher-Mentor-Friend”

That is what is on the plaque on the piano donated to the Lansing Central School District upon her retirement in June of 2004.

Cindy the Teacher

Cindy used to say to me all the time, “If I were in this job for the money, I’d be better off working at McDonald’s. The hourly rate is better.” I’ve known only 2 teachers since living in Lansing who never “punched a time clock”, one was the Lansing Star's first Star of the Month, Sue Frahm; the other is Cindy Howell.

Cindy loved teaching music, but more than that, she loved the students; wanting to bring music to everyone who was interested. She never said no to anyone who wanted to learn about music, any aspect of it. When the school day ended, Cindy was only halfway through her day as the late afternoons and early evenings were spent with special singing groups and musical rehearsals. Other teachers would come back from Spring Break bragging about their restful vacations. Not Cindy. They would ask how her vacation was and Cindy would smile and say, “Great!”

Pondering a poster for the musical

Cindy the Mentor

If you were to poll the current student body, as well as the multitude of alumni from Lansing Central School District, it would amaze you how many students consider Cindy their mentor. These “kids” were not just her students, she truly cared and cares about them. Whenever any one of them has a problem, you would find them in Cindy’s room seeking her advice. She continues to keep in touch with many of her old students.

Howell (left) performing with a student

Cindy the Friend

I consider myself fortunate to have been able to call Cindy my friend for the past 22 years. But I am just one of so many in the Lansing community who consider Cindy a friend. In her retirement, Cindy is as busy as ever. Between her family (especially her 4 grandchildren), bible study, and continuing to do the Lansing musicals, her days are full and happy. If friends were gold, Cindy would be one of the richest ladies in Lansing!

When Cindy retired, the Lansing community came together to wish her well. Many alumni returned to perform in a special program celebrating the many musicals brought to LHS, and the auditorium was packed with Cindy’s fans. May she continue to glorify and amaze us all with her multitude of talents. We, as a community, are fortunate indeed.

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