Stats: Bachelor of Music from Lawrence University Conservatory of Music • Master of Arts in Education from Saint Mary’s University in Minnesota
Music has been a lifelong passion and a huge part of Daniel Perelstein’s identity. He studied music in college and went on to become the high school band, orchestra, and guitar teacher at Washington Technology Magnet School in Saint Paul Public Schools. This will be his 21st year of teaching.
“I plan to keep teaching as long as I can, and be grateful that I get to do what I love every single day,” he said.
A recent highlight of his music journey was receiving the Barry Manilow Music Education Award, where he had the chance to meet Manilow before his concert at the Xcel Energy Center last summer. Perelstein plans to use the award money to purchase new instruments for his school.
Q: Was there a teacher or staff member who made a difference in your life?
My most influential teacher at Hopkins High School was Mr. Bates. He was an iconic and legendary band teacher. He helped shape me into the musician and teacher I am today, and always pushed me to try my best, be resilient, and have fun.
Q: How did Hopkins prepare you for the future?
My teachers at HHS were passionate, inspiring, and dedicated to their subject areas and the art of teaching. I had numerous teachers emphasize the importance of being a life-long learner, and that has stuck with me, personally and professionally. They helped me to become a better person.