Michael Stefano, a native of North Wales in Montgomery County, is a music teacher at Tredyffrin-Easttown Middle School and a West Chester Borough Council Member.

Stefano, who began working when he was 14 years old by busing tables and washing dishes at a diner, earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from West Chester University and a master’s degree in Music Education from Boston University. He credits his friend and co-worker, Ben Green, with having the biggest impact on his career.

“Ben was my mentor at my first teaching job in Kennett Square, and he really was supportive and helped so much,” said Stefano. “He’s an amazing educator and even owns his own music-lesson business, Greensleeves. He also encouraged me to play my sax at a time when I wasn’t playing much at all. We now play together in our jazz group, Dub-C Swing.”

Stefano is proudest of the diverse areas he has worked in and excelled.

“Not only do I teach in an amazing and nationally recognized school district, but I also get to serve in local government for West Chester as a Borough Council Member,” he said. “Prior to teaching, I worked in the restaurant business for more than 20 years. I’m a professional musician, and I even have held leadership roles in my teachers’ union. Every time I take a risk doing something new, I am able to learn and grow.”

Stefano’s favorite Chester County restaurants are both in West Chester: the Side Bar & Restaurant and Roots Café.

“Side Bar offers the best beer selection in the Philadelphia area, has amazing food and drinks, and a fun, local atmosphere,” he said. “Roots does such a great job of offering locally sourced food and drinks that are well crafted and delicious.”