As music teachers, our job may be to teach. However, most students are more likely to be comfortable opening up to a teacher they see several times a day for several years, rather than a counselor they see rarely. It is only natural for music teachers to become teachers, mentors, and counselors to these kids. Even in light of this tragedy, I will still never ever hesitate to help a student in need.

Mattsmom...it doesn't sound funny to not send carnations...he didn't like them :-)

A mistake is a server bringing the wrong food at a restaurant, it can be fixed. A mistake is taking a hit of pot, but next time you can so no and fix that mistake. Killing someone is not a mistake. Tell me how do you fix that mistake?

Many people come from difficult backgrounds and go through hell growing up and don't go and kill the one person trying to help them. It is the choices we make.

Don't speak of things you know nothing about. As someone that was very close to him and know's the truth, let me point out the only thing that matters. A wonderful man, teacher, and friend is dead for a sensless reason. Don't focus on the people that did this, focus on the fact that this holiday season Matt's friends and family are dealing with a tragedy beyond comphrehension. We never think it can hit this close to home. He is so loved and so missed, and forever there will be an aching empty hole in my heart.