PE and health teacher Joseph Sussman’s classroom has become infamous at Cal High for beginning each period with a lot of noise.
A lot of really loud noise. Or, from Sussman’s perspective, really loud music.
As a long standing tradition, Sussman starts each class with a daily dose of heavy metal.
“It definitely wakes you up,” freshman Tyson Redondo said. “I just don’t know if everyone likes metal. I’m ok with it, but it’s definitely loud to say the least.”
But it’s loud for a reason. Many teachers use music to soothe and calm their students. But Sussman has noted that in his experience, playing music like Megadeth or Tool can boost students’ mood and energy.
“The first time I ever encountered it was at a workshop where someone tried to use music as a soothing, calming impact,” Sussman said. “In my class, I use it to boost energy and get people engaged.”
Sussman’s use of music and his conversational style of teaching has made his class unforgettable for many students.
“My first day of class I walked in the class and metal was blasting, which was a little intimidating, but once Mr. Sussman started, he was chill,” sophomore Cole Vu said. “I really like all the conversations we had.”
Sussman also incorporates music into his curriculum and teaching style, allowing students to make connections with what they’re learning.
“[The arts] connect people, move people,” Sussman said. “I’m all behind anything to make connections.”
Sussman said many music genres and songs have spoken about important health related issues. For example, the songs from many different artists sympathize with the issue of substance abuse.
This ability to enhance learning makes music much more than just background noise, which he explains is how many teachers treat it.
Sussman has been bridging the gap between generations with music for almost 30 years after starting at Cal in 1997.
“My high school football coach was the principal here and he asked if I wanted to come to practice,” Sussman said. “I went and I signed up for my teaching credential the same day.”
As a teacher, he realizes that music can greatly enhance learning and make it more enjoyable for everyone involved.
“I think old fashioned teachers think silence equals productivity,” Sussman said. “The younger generation feels that they can do multiple things at once.”
Sussman said he supports students using personal devices to listen to music. To many students, this only enhances their learning with a myriad of benefits.
“I’m always listening to music,” Redondo said. “It helps me focus, it makes class less boring. Everyday I’m using music.”
Sussman disagrees with playing music during instruction because he said it’s a distraction. But he points out there are worse distractions for students.
“Of all the ways kids can rebel, that is not one that’s going to get me to riot,” Sussman said.
But Sussman’s heavy music usually doesn’t leave students bored. Freshman Jacob Vass said he finds the music memorable and unique.
Other students don’t mind the music Sussman plays at the beginning of class or have simply just gotten used to it.
Freshman Arjun Madalli said he doesn’t really mind the loud Metallica as an introduction to his first period. He’s gotten used to starting his mornings this way, to the point that it’s relaxing to him.
Whether they love or hate the music Sussman plays, students seem to enjoy him as a teacher. Contrary to the loud, brash music he plays in class, students say he’s incredibly kind and fosters a sense of community.
