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Grace McAllister, Vocal Music Director
Grace McAllister directs the choirs and assists with the marching band and musical theatre productions. She currently serves as the District 15 President of the Ohio Music Education Association and is active at King Avenue UMC's handbell choir and chancel choir. She graduated from Capital University, and while there, she performed in South Africa, Oman, Florida, Colorado, and Cincinnati. When she isn't teaching, Mrs. McAllister is studying for her master's in Music Education at Ohio University, knitting, and enjoying time with her husband, Xavier and children Jack and Faye.
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Andrea Tippery, Strings Specialist
Mrs. Tippery has been playing in Pit Orchestras since she was 14. She has been teaching music in Columbus City Schools since 1998 and has been at Whetstone since 2013. She plays with the Newark Granville Symphony, Westerville Symphony, and other orchestras throughout the central Ohio area. Mrs. Tippery enjoys reading, cooking, bicycling, and being outdoors. She has 2 step-children: Gabe (Kate), and Amanda (Scott) and 4 grand-children: Izzy, Audrey, Emily, and Ezra. At home, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Bill; dog, SayDee, and cats, Cecilia and Forsa.
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Rashad Mitchell Jr., Instrumental Music Director
Mr. Mitchell is a proud graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. There, he performed as a bass trombonist in the jazz ensemble, marching, and athletic bands. Mr. Mitchell is in his fourth year of teaching and is responsible for directing the concert/marching band, jazz ensemble, handbell choir, and string orchestra. He would like to thank all the talented students and adults for bringing this story to life! "I hope you've had a magical experience!"
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Christopher Ray, Theatrical Director
Mr. Chris Ray graduated from OSU with a Bachelor's in Theatre and a Master's in Drama Education (K12). He began his teaching career at West High School and spent six years as a Cowboy, developing a student-centered theatre program. He has been at Whetstone for five years now, and is excited to continue this incredible performing arts program. A founding member of WAPA, Christopher has artistically directed Scrooge's Christmas (2018), Hairspray! (2019), Almost Maine (2019), Disney's Beauty and the Beast (2020), One Night Only (2021), Disney's Peter And The Starcatcher (2021), and Shrek the Musical (2022). Of course, Christopher would not be able to pursue any of his dreams without the continued understanding and support of his loving family, especially his beautiful wife Kimberly, shining-star daughter Emma, and adventurous son, Isaac. "You all push me to want to be a better educator, husband, dad, and person– I love you!"
