1986: Steinert's Annual Band Competition

STEINERT: I AM REALLY IMPRESSED WITH THE WONDERFUL MUSICAL PROGRAMS IN THE HAMILTON TOWNSHIP PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM, WHETHER GRAMMAR SCHOOLS OR HIGH SCHOOLS. THE ABOVE PICTORIAL IS JUST ONE OF THE MANY NEIGHBORHOOD MUSICAL EVENTS PRESENTED BY OUR 3 HIGH SCHOOLS. WELL DONE, STUDENTS OF THE MUSICAL ARTS, AND TO YOUR TEACHERS, BAND PARENTS, AND OTHERS INVOLVED IN MAKING HAMILTON TOWNSHIP PUBLIC SCHOOLS SHINE VERY BRIGHTLY WHEN IT COMES TO A MUSICAL EDUCATION.

Some time ago, I was approached by a Steinert representative asking if I would do a column on the history of Steinert in honor of their 50th anniverary celebration. I would have loved to do a column, but unfortunately material on Steinert is elusive and difficult to acquire. Most of my historical columns on schools come from personal experience, or relying on the many yearbooks in m collection to catch the essence of the period about which I am writing. Due to Steinert's stated policy of not allowing access to the school's yearbooks, I was not able to refer to my personal library where I could leisurely, and in my own time, put together bits and pieces for a story.*

I'm sure there is a legitimate reason for the restriction, and I certainly respect that. On the other hand, information in the published press is available, and I will continue in my search for any Steinert High School material which is of historic interest to Spartans from past classes. I will post whatever I find on this website.

*Back when Steinert alumnus Alito was appointed to the Supreme Court, I received calls at the Hamilton Township Public Library from CBS, NBC, MSNBC, and CNN, and some print media, all were seeking a yearbook photo of Justice Samuel Alito. I had tried earlier to request copies of the school's annual yearbooks, but a Mr. Gilbert told me that it was against policy to give public access to them.

That lack of access makes it difficult to access historical material on the school. In my personal collection I have at least 30 Hamilton High yearbooks from the early 30's into the 80's and some 90's. I use them often in my ongoing quest for Hamilton High's magnificent heritage.

In the meantime, Spartans students and alumni, Congratulations on your 50th. You are an ultra-classy high school!