Jefferson’s Burazer honored with ‘Stay in the Game’ Educator award

JEFFERSON – Jefferson Area Junior/Senior High School welcomed some special guests on Tuesday, March 10, as one of its educators received an award through the Cleveland Browns Foundation’s Stay in the Game program.
A surprised Director of Bands Fred Burazer watched as Brownie the Elf and Elk + Elk Managing Partner Jay Kelley wheeled out a new drum set onto the stage at the JAHS auditorium, as Burazer wrapped up leading a band class.
The drum set, along with a gift certificate to purchase more instruments, were just some of the gifts for Burazer, who received the Stay in the Game Educator award.
Burazer also received an official Cleveland Browns jersey with his name on the back.
The award is through the Stay in the Game program, which the district is involved in.
Launched in 2019 by the Cleveland Browns Foundation along with partner organizations, the Stay in the Game! Attendance Network works together to campaign, connect and convene with experts and supporters to dramatically improve attendance at school.
“We partner together to bring community recognitions to different members throughout Ohio,” said Kelly McLaughlin, with the Cleveland Browns Foundation, which administers the Educator award program with Elk + Elk.
Jefferson Assistant Principal Mark Fritz nominated Burazer, who has been with the district since 2006, for the Educator award.
“Everybody’s here for Mr. B. They come to the school just for him,” Fritz said. “They don’t miss days. He has them here all summer long, and during band camp. They don’t want to miss school because they’d miss rehearsal and all that.”
In his nomination, Fritz wrote, “Fred Burazer is not only a music teacher, but he is a teacher that goes above and beyond in every way and everyday, dedicating countless hours both in and out of the classroom to support and inspire students all across the secondary level. From hot summer rehearsals to before and after school, to Friday night football, parades, and other countless community outreach events, Mr. Burazer consistently shows up with a smile, unwavering commitment, and his selfless devotion to our students and community. His passion for music is passed on to students who regularly attend school because of his class. He makes sure every student is heard, seen, feels valued and is motivated to learn. His remarkable leadership and heart allows him to connect with each student, often ensuring that students get the support they deserve and need when students themselves might not even know what they need.
“Without a doubt, Mr. Burazer has grown our band to be one of the largest in the county with nearly 150 students in the high school marching band (nearly 25 percent of our school!), while also reaching over 50 percent of the junior high student population through band.”
Fritz wrote that “Burazer is a teacher every parent wants their child to have. He is a teacher who has dedicated his life to music and students.”
He wrote, “He aims for the sky, pushing students to grow and be the best versions of themselves. This often comes with a sacrifice for Mr. Burazer, which is countless hours away from his family. However, it is his family’s encouragement and love that allows him to continue to be the best educator he can be for our students. His dedication for his students goes beyond his job description, and it is a true calling for him. Truly, Mr. Burazer has a heart that never stops giving, and his students know that.”
JAHS Principal Rich Shields said Burazer is in education for the right reasons.
On stage in front of the students before the award was presented to Burazer, Fritz spoke of the importance of attendance, congratulating students for “staying in the game” as well.
“I know you guys come so you can perform in band,” Fritz told the students. “But I also think it’s because of Mr. B.”
The students responded with loud applause.
Fritz then introduced Kelley, who said they could not agree more with Burazer’s nomination.
“This is about chronic absenteeism and getting you guys to want to come to school. He’s got you guys coming in the summer. He’s got you staying after school,” Kelley said.
Burazer thanked Fritz and the administrators for nominating and supporting him.
“You guys are always so supportive,” Burazer said. “You guys allow me to just be myself and come to work, and that’s the best part about working here. You guys let me be myself.”
Burazer’s family was present to watch him receive the award.
“I’m so grateful for my family to be here. Thank you for letting them come here, too. Everything I do here at work is really for you guys,” Burazer said. “We have a great family at home. I appreciate you guys and all your support.”
He thanked the Cleveland Browns.
“I have been a Browns fan since the day I was born,” Burazer said. “I still root for them every single week. I never miss a game. To be associated with this team, you’ve got the right guy on your side.”
He then thanked his students.
“They say you guys come here, and your attendance is good because you want to be in the band. I really look forward to every day that I get to work with each and every one of you,” Burazer said. “You’re the reason I get up and come to school. We have a mission collectively to be as great as we can be every day. And you always rise to that challenge. And all the accolades that I’ve received over 20 years are only because of what a special group of people you are. You’re wonderful human beings and musicians, and you deserve all the credit.”