Jamar Jenkins keeps the music flowing. (Photo by JohnsPhotos.net)
For the first time in two decades, there’s a new person currently in charge of keeping the beat going at Coupeville High School and Middle School.
Jamar Jenkins, the school’s music teacher and band director since 2003, is currently on paid administrative leave.
Coupeville Schools Superintendent Steve King released a statement from CHS/CMS Principal Geoff Kappes Thursday afternoon, in a bid to offer clarity to rampant discussion on social media.
That statement:
“As many of you know Mr. Jenkins has not been teaching his classes over the past couple of weeks.
“In order to make sure you have accurate information I’m writing to inform you that Mr. Jenkins is on paid administrative leave while the concerns that were reported are being investigated.
“This leave is not disciplinary and the District has reached no conclusions regarding what personnel actions, if any, may be appropriate.
“We ask for patience and respect for the investigative process, as well as your understanding that we are not able to discuss further specifics of the concerns at this time.”
A graduate of the University of Washington, Jenkins has an extensive history as a professional musician, coming up through the Seattle funk scene in the 1970’s.
A guitarist and vocalist, he is one of the founders of the band Cold, Bold, and Together, originally known as Funk Experience.
Cold, Bold, and Together in their prime. (Photo property Light in the Attic Records)
That group, which later introduced the world to Kenny G, was together from 1971-1978 and opened for Canned Heat, Kool & the Gang, KC & the Sunshine Band, and Earth, Wind & Fire among others.
After band members opted to move on to different projects as disco swept the nation, Jenkins went to college, got married and fathered children, and moved into teaching music.
He had teaching stints in Tacoma and Los Angeles before moving to Whidbey Island, where his wife, Allenda, grew up in Oak Harbor.
Jenkins daughter, Janiece, is a member of the Coupeville Sports Hall o’ Fame, captured three medals at the state track and field championships in 2005, and held the school record in the 200 for eight years.
Coupeville Sports 