Monterey Peninsula College, Music Degree
Strayer University, Business Administration with a Focus in Finance
Mr. Junsay has taught for more than 10 years in public and private schools, assisted in directing and teaching two high school bands, and was recently the head of the music department at Edlin School in Reston, VA.
Mr. Junsay grew up in Monterey, California where he first experienced music in fourth grade. His first instrument that he learned to play was the clarinet. In middle school, Mr. Junsay moved to the bass clarinet, and it became his main instrument. In high school, Mr. Junsay became the drum major in his sophomore year. He remained drum major for the marching band and pep bands for three years. Mr. Junsay was also fortunate to get to have the experience of student teaching and conducting. Mr. Junsay also ran and managed his own Christmas chamber band in which he toured all over the Monterey Peninsula with in high school.
He has worked with students from preschool through eighth grade. He has created an advanced music curriculum through which students learned to use the tools and elements of music theory and music appreciation (many of which are often not typically introduced until college) and apply them to their everyday lives.
Mr. Junsay’s interests and experience extend well beyond the classroom. In addition to directing bands at a variety of levels, he has also directed a capella ensembles and numerous children’s theatre performances. Whether as a director, choreographer, set-, light-, or costume-designer, he enjoys creating opportunities for children to use their talents and imaginations.
What particularly excites Mr. Junsay about teaching at BASIS Independent McLean is the school’s commitment to allowing students to choose the path where they are comfortable and confident. Giving children the right tools and encouraging them to use them in concert with their own imagination, opens up a world of possibilities. Mr. Junsay also appreciates that BASIS Independent McLean focuses on the whole child; the curriculum allows students to make connections and experiment with ideas that might not have otherwise been sparked. He believes this is the foundation a child needs to gain self-confidence and a desire to learn more.
Mr. Junsay moved to Virginia in 2012. Now with two step children, a black Labrador/English setter named Maya, and his partner. Mr. Junsay is very happy living on the East Coast. He loves to decorate for any event or holiday, especially Halloween!
