Nautilus Middle School music teacher inspires love for arts

Local 10 News honors Ray Modia

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. ā€“ Ray Modia, a teacher at Nautilus Middle School on Miami Beach, is a Local 10 Tribute to Teachers honoree.

He's taught music for more than 30 years at Nautilus, instilling in his students an appreciation for music of every genre and from every generation.Ā 

Modia's students have learned to love Latin, jazz, pop, classical and current hits. Whether students want to play the piano, drums or trumpet, there is room for every talent in his band.

"He takes the time to make you feel you're appreciated in this class," said student Isabel Pearlman.

"An instrument really helps you express your creativity and how you're feeling, and Modia really taught me that," said student Manuel Nores.

Modia was not only honored by his students and fellow teachers, he was also surprised with a $1,000 check courtesy of the Ford Motor Co.

He said his students are the ones who have helped him hit all the right notes throughout the years.

"They are the ones that help me be what I am.Ā  I tell my kids all the time that the best teacher is them," Modia said.

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