James Francis Haefele dedicated over thirty years of his life to the Half Hollow Hills Community.

Mr. Haefele was an outstanding chorus director who was beloved by his students as well as his peers. He worked in local, county, and state professional organizations as a fervent advocate of Music Education. He was a past president of SCMEA, as well as chairperson for numerous All-County groups throughout his career. As a choral director, his groups were always outstanding. Most of all, Mr. Haefele left a legacy as a master teacher, mentor, and friend to all that he encountered. There are few teachers that have worked as hard for their students as Mr. Haefele. His legacy will live on through the many students he has inspired to become music educators.

Established in 2021, the James F. Haefele Memorial Scholarship is a 501(c)(3) organization that aims to award two $1,000 scholarships annually to a student from Half Hollow Hills High School East and High School West. Scholarships will be awarded to music students who personify the qualities that Mr. Haefele exemplified, in memory of a man who taught the meaning of dedication and the importance of growth through music.

With the help of the Half Hollow Hills community and people like you, we aim to fund these scholarships in perpetuity. Please consider making a donation today.