Alumni in 5
Jim Zwarensteyn '75
Employer
Sparta Area Schools
1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
After gradduating I tried to land a teaching position in the West
MI area. Tried subbing and left that to try medical training. Working
at Blodgett Hospital, then Grand Rapids Magazine and a full-time stint
with the MI Nat'l Gd Band. Got back to teaching in Grand Rapids at the
Job Corps Center and then for 27 years at Sparta Area Schools as band
director (among other subjects). Always part of the 126 Army Band from
1969-2008. After retirement, I have spent time traveling, taking up
outdoor group activities and playing and directing numerous musical
groups. Life has been wonderful. And my wife and only daughter were
all GV grads. It's "all in the family."
2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
That was a long time ago, but my favorite times at school where
the annual band tours. Each year the band would board busses in the
spring and spend 3 days visiting different Michigan communities. We
stayed at private homes and were able to bond as a group as well as
meeting some very fine people all over the state.
3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
"Work tirelessly to be the very best you can be at whatever
you set out to do." Prof Daniel Kovats
4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand
Valley experience.
Fun, exciting, and illuminating.
5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
I would like to think I have made a positive impact on many young
men and women coming out of Sparta High School. Also, that my time in
the military band gave me an opportunity to show a sense of patriotism
to our state and nation that will be remembered after I have gone
away. And that I had a family that cared and loved each other.
February 2025
Interest Area(s)
Music Education
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