Noteworthy: The Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra awarded Lavelle its 2015 Outstanding Educator Award on Jan. 31. The award recognizes a local educator from the tri-state area from among hundreds of local music teachers. The Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra includes musicians chosen by audition from more than 32 school districts in the Pittsburgh area.

Age: 34

Residence: Ross

Family: Wife, Sarah; daughters, Grace, 4, Annie, 3.

Occupation: North Hills High School band director and music teacher

Background: Lavelle has been teaching at North Hills for seven years. Before joining his alma mater, Lavelle taught in the Bethel Park and Williamsport Area school districts. In the last five years, he has led ensembles that have been featured twice each at the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association State Convention, the National Association for Music Education All-East Conference and the Pennsylvania School Boards Association Conference.

Education: Bachelor's degree in music education, Duquesne University;

Quote: “I was just humbled they looked to me and wanted to recognize my work here. I love my job. It's my dream job.”

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