What makes someone a star student? Is it their devotion? Talents? Or is it simpler than that? 

 This ‘24-’25 school year, a model of a star student is Rennae Reid. A senior year here at Musselman High School, Rennae has taken part for four years in the band, during which she has played trumpet for the marching, jazz, and concert band, and is now a drum major.  

Mr. Knepper, the MuHS band director, provided his definition of a star student.  

“Our star students are the ones that improve and feel as if they are fitting into the ensemble. They are the first ones to unlock their creativity so that they can express themselves and be with the proficient students comfortably,” expressed Knepper.  

This criterion is what Knepper used to identify Reid as a star student.  

 Rennae has achieved many things to earn the title of a star student. Her goal to play brass instruments after playing clarinet and the devotion to practice allowed her to gain a larger scale of musical capabilities.  As well as unlocking inventiveness and confidence, these things have put her on the path to becoming a leader in the band program. 

 “My favorite part about band is the connections between different people, and we spend lots of time together so you can have the opportunity to bond,” stated Reid. 

After high school, even though she does not wish to pursue a career in music as her main priority, she hopes to have a side gig that includes music.  

During her free time, she takes part in track and enjoys playing with her dog whose name is Scooby.