SBO+: This marks the 25th year of this annual feature focusing on YOU, the music teachers who are making a daily difference in students’ lives. Previously, it was called “50 Directors Who Make a Difference,” but starting this year, we are honoring music teachers of all types who were nominated and then selected for this prestigious honor. Starting next year, we will move this feature to April to move away from the start of a busy school year and marching season. I hope you will find these brief stories from our winners as inspiring as I did!
Alabama
Lori Hart
Guntersville High School, Guntersville, Alabama
Total Years Teaching: 43
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moments as an educator are countless after 43 years of teaching. From performing at state conferences to witnessing students master challenging pieces and discover a genuine love for music, each accomplishment has been meaningful. However, some of the most special moments are seeing the look of pride on students’ faces when their hard work pays off. Perhaps one of the greatest joys comes from watching former students become directors themselves, building their own successful programs and continuing the cycle of inspiration that I received from those I learned from.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to make a difference in students’ lives by being a guiding light that helps them realize and achieve their potential. I try to inspire them to be resilient, encourage them to solve problems, and approach challenges with confidence. My goal is to create a classroom environment where students feel valued and motivated to learn, but mostly that they know they are loved. I want to help them develop strong character traits such as empathy, integrity, and serving others. My hope is after they graduate, they remember their experiences as positive, impactful moments in their education and their lives.
What’s the most important lesson that you try to teach your students?
It is interesting how this has changed over the course of my career. I am at a place in my life now where I believe the most important lesson is the value of perseverance, resilience and being a light to others. I want my students to understand that while knowledge and skills are essential, the ability to persevere through challenges and keep a positive attitude will serve them throughout life. I help them see the importance of strong character, developing positive relationships, cultivating the strength to keep going, even when things get tough. Most importantly, be the light that inspires others. This mindset is what can make the biggest impact long after they graduate.
Alaska
Tevya Robbins
Eagle River High School, Eagle River, Alaska
Total Years Teaching: 20
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I have been teaching music for 20 years now and there are so many proud moments I have had as an educator. The positive impact that I have made on each student is the thing I am most proud of. Getting to see a student years after they have graduated and hearing the stories about how I impacted their lives in a positive way makes me incredibly proud of the work that I have done over the years. From a student sending me an email ten years after they graduated apologizing for their behavior in my classes and thanking me for pushing them to be a better person and that he is now a successful adult because of me; to getting invited to a student’s wedding and being able to hold her baby and hear how her life is forever changed for the better because of me. This profession is so difficult at times, but those times when you get to hear about the impact you have made on people’s lives and how appreciative they are, make me so proud of what I have accomplished as a music teacher.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
My goal as a music teacher is to make a positive impact on every student and help them become successful productive citizens. I hope to help them musically and help them mature into adults that can then have a positive impact on others. I became a music teacher to be there for students as they make the difficult transition into adulthood.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I try to teach my students is to be good positive people that care about the world and care about other people. I do this by example in how I treat my students, I am honest, kind, and supportive of every student that enters my classroom.
Arizona
Katie Gerrich
McClintock High School in Tempe, Arizona
Total Years Teaching: 23 years
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moments are when students reach out to me after they have graduated to say what an impact our choir family had on their lives.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope that I can inspire students to be the best version of themselves. I aim to help them understand they are loved and cared for no matter what, and what they bring to the table is valuable and important.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I try to teach my students is that kindness and inclusion are so very important. Being a member of a choir is something bigger than yourself. I hope my students walk away with the idea that they contributed to the choir family, and that they feel that in our choir they found a place where they belonged.
Arkansas
Cody Jernigan
Vilonia Middle School. Vilonia, Arkansas
Total Years Teaching: 23
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
It is always a proud moment to see a student use band as a means to get to college. I have had several students over my career that would not have been able to afford to get a degree if it were not for the band.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
My goal is to instill a life-long love of music for all students. Not everyone will go on to a college or professional band, but hopefully, they will continue to enjoy music.
What’s the most important lesson that you try to teach your students?
Be a good person. We want our students to be the standard in and out of the band room.
California
Lydia Cooley
Elementary schools, Davis Joint Unified School District, Davis, CA
Total Years Teaching: 18
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I have many proud moments as an educator. They are moments when my students take the initiative—creating their own variation, describing music in their own words, teaching fellow students things they missed while absent, volunteering to switch from violin 1 to violin 2 to create a better balance, or years later coming back to help with elementary concerts and performing with the younger kids.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I teach elementary music. I think at this stage students need a consistent teacher who loves them; a teacher who is not busy building the music program but instead busy building the children up. The kids will be the ones who will build the program. I hope to be that teacher. Once the students know they are loved and accepted, then a careful auditory-based curriculum and a multitude of opportunities to play and perform will be a springboard to student success.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
There are two things I’m hoping to train my students to do. The first lesson is to listen and to hear with comprehension. Music is an auditory education and it is so rare at schools these days. The second lesson is to learn that everything can be achieved – whether it’s playing Coldplay, Czardas, or Mendelssohn. There are no limits to the students who are willing.
Colorado
Andrew Campo
Montezuma-Cortez Middle School, Cortez Colorado
Total Years Teaching: 28
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
As a first-year teacher, I had a freshman student who never smiled or talked to me. The next year he would at least speak with me. I knew his life wasn’t easy. Band was his outlet. By his senior year, he was a star of my jazz band and section leader of the wind ensemble. In the spring of his senior year, I asked him what he was going to do next year. He told me that he had a full college scholarship and would be studying music education! I knew then I could make a difference.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to make a difference in the lives of my students through teaching life skills through music. I believe that the skills learned through studying an instrument like independence, perseverance, determination, hard work, discipline, teamwork and dedication help students throughout their lives. I recently had a student from 20 years ago contact me out of the blue. He has become a team leader in cybersecurity for a huge multinational corporation and he thanked me for lessons he still uses today like ways to stay calm under pressure and that hard work breeds success. That means the world to me.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson that I try to instill in my students is that hard work pays off. Some music students don’t find success elsewhere. Music provides a place for everyone to be successful through hard work. When students discover that their perseverance can make them successful, they can take that work ethic and apply it to other parts of their lives. I recently had a successful adult friend tell me that he first realized in band class, that by working hard, he could be part of something truly special. He has used that lesson in life. Success breeds success!
Connecticut
Danielle Colosimo Abucewicz
Bristol Public Schools, Bristol, Connecticut
Total Years Teaching: 16
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment is being afforded the honor to be a music educator. It is one of my greatest achievements, influences and inspirations. It keeps me going on the days that are the most difficult. It is the best way to express your feelings and feel those feelings and I get to pass that along to my students.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to help inspire my students day in and day out, while making each of them feel something when listening to, singing, playing, experiencing music in some facet of life. I believe it is one of the most healing and therapeutic subjects, activities, and experiences offered in schools.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
I always knew I was going to teach, but music was my outlet, my safe space, my therapy, my way to get through anything. I knew I needed to teach that to help others feel that way it made me feel. Life is difficult and music is a universal language of healing. Everyone should take the chance to explore music even just for a semester, a year, multiple years, or FOREVER. Music is ever changing and is one of the few things in the world that adapts no matter what is going on around us, or we adapt to it.
Delaware
Jennifer L. McCutchan
Clayton Intermediate School, Clayton, Delaware
Total Years Teaching: 27
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment as an educator is witnessing the excitement and energy in my students when they realize what they have learned and accomplished! Seeing their faces light up with understanding and pride in their progress is the most fulfilling part of teaching. It’s a reminder that, beyond the lessons and content, I have played a part in helping them grow, both intellectually and personally. That moment of recognition, when they realize their own potential, is what makes every challenge and effort worthwhile.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
My goal as an educator is to make a lasting and positive impact on my students by helping them build self-confidence and instill in them a lifelong love for music. I aim to create a classroom space that is inclusive and supportive, where each student feels valued and empowered to explore their musical potential. By offering a variety of musical experiences, whether through learning an instrument, or singing a new song, I want to inspire them to recognize their own abilities, take pride in themselves, know they can overcome challenges, and embrace music as a source of personal expression and joy.
What is the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
I want my students to understand that life is full of challenges, and with challenges come obstacles. In my classroom, I aim to build their confidence and mindset so they can approach these challenges head-on. I want them to leave my music class not just with musical skills, but with the resilience and determination to tackle any obstacle that comes their way. By facing difficulties in music, they learn valuable lessons about perseverance, problem-solving, and the importance of a positive mindset that will serve them throughout their lives.
Florida
Brett Robinson
Barron Collier HS, Naples, Florida
Total Years Teaching: 29
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I am incredibly proud to be a high school band director. Every day I feel an overwhelming sense of pride in my students’ accomplishments in and outside of the band room. The opportunity to watch my students grow and share in their success on the marching band field and the concert stage is what motivates me to continue to teach. I am grateful to all the student musicians throughout my career who have allowed me to be their high school band director. The capstone moment of my career will be receiving the Florida Bandmasters Association Andrew J. Crew Five-Year Superior State MPA award at the upcoming FMEA Conference.
How do you hope to make a difference in students’ lives?
It is important that the students know that someone cares about them and wants them to succeed. Music and the band room is a place where they can be themselves and feel appreciated. I want my students to feel like they are held to the highest musical standards in my classroom, and they should never settle for anything less than their best musical performance.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
Every student is equally important to the success and tradition of our band program. There is no shortcut to hard work and dedication. Be accountable for your effort and your actions. Have fun and always take the time to care about yourself, your family and each other. Carry your love of music, performing, and your memories from band with you forever.
Georgia
Dr. Chantae D. Pittman
Campbell High School, Smyrna, Ga.
Total Years Teaching: 15
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
Whenever I see my former students still participating in music, whether they are performing in church, in community choirs, or they are music educators themselves. It is so humbling to experience the feeling of pride to have one of my students still using their gifts and talents to perform music.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope I can make a difference in their everyday life in some shape or fashion. Every student doesn’t come in the class needing the same things, but I hope that they are able to glean what they need from my “life lessons” in music.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
I hope that my students learn patience, how to do the “hard work” of preparing for performance, determination, communication skills, and leadership skills throughout their matriculation through my program.
Hawaii
Maribelle Fernandez
Wai‘anae Intermediate School, Wai‘anae, HI
Total Years Teaching: 7
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moments are when I see my students make small victories on a daily basis, especially from students who struggle at first. The excitement and confidence they gain when they finally achieve their goals brings me joy. It just feels satisfying to see their face light up, experiencing that “aha” moment!
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
Each student brings their own set of life experiences and challenges to the classroom, and I hope to foster a stable, supportive, and predictable learning environment as they navigate through middle school. My students know they are welcome in my office anytime they need a listening ear, and I am always thrilled to celebrate their successes and offer support during tough times.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
Learning an instrument is a journey of self-discovery, revealing both your strengths and weaknesses in the face of adversity. I encourage my students to embrace challenges and never give up! They might not be able to play a certain note or passage of music “yet”, but with enough hard work and dedication, they can do it. If they can learn to stick with something difficult, they can do the same with anything they want to achieve in the future.
Idaho
Steven Klingler
Madison High School, Rexburg,Idaho
Total Years Teaching: 25
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I don’t have a proudest moment; I have a proud career. This includes the first time I see the lights go on in a beginner’s eyes when they get it, to the first moment a freshman puts on their marching band uniform and struts around the band room to the last time they take it off as a senior with tears in their eyes. Seeing my band family excel, grow, and support each other in these moments is what it’s all about.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
My hope is that we can develop a place where any student can belong and find success: a place where they are free to be themselves and grow together as friends, while they develop a lifelong passion and love for creating and participating in music. It is to enrich their lives, both present and future, as they express their thoughts and feelings with others in their new lifelong language of music.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
While there are so many lessons to be learned in music education, I believe the most important lesson a student can learn in music is to believe in themselves. They believe they can do hard things, as they push through disappointment and failure, to find joy and success on the other side. They strive for perfection as they fall short but continue to joyfully edge nearer and nearer with each note they play.
Illinois
Lyndra Bastian
School: Woodstock High School and Creekside Middle School, Woodstock IL
Total Years Teaching: 12
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moments as an educator come from the opportunities I’ve been able to create for my students. Whether it’s performing alongside a respected string group, going on a once-in-a-lifetime field trip, starting a special education orchestra, or simply providing a welcoming and inclusive space, these experiences have had a profound impact on my students. They open up the world to them, helping them grow, build confidence, and find their voices. Knowing that I’ve played a role in shaping these moments and enriching their lives is what I’m most proud of as an educator.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I aim to make a lasting impact by showing my students they always have someone in their corner. Through music, we create connections that extend beyond the classroom, fostering a sense of belonging and support. While I set high standards, I also take time to understand their lives and struggles to offer better support. Many former students return to share their journeys and ask about the program or me, showing me how meaningful their time in class was. My hope is that by demonstrating care and compassion, they’ll pay it forward, helping make the world a better place for others.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I share with my students is the power of music to unite and elevate us as human beings. Regardless of background, beliefs, or race, music transcends barriers and fosters connection. In my classroom, we often joke that we are a “large, odd family,” but it’s a reflection of the respect and camaraderie we share. While we may know each other to different degrees, every student feels valued and safe. Through years together in orchestra, sometimes up to nine years, my students form lasting bonds, carrying with them a sense of belonging and community that extends far beyond our time together.
Indiana
Tom Cox
Goshen High School, Goshen, Indiana
Total Years Teaching: 32
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment as an educator is seeing my students achieve their greatest potential. However, I must admit having my children in my ensembles and seeing them perform gives me great joy!
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope that through participating in our bands our kids learn resilience, dedication, critical thinking and what it means to work as a team. I hope we give them skills that they can take with them in their next stage of life. I also hope they enjoy music and support music education as they become adults.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I hope to teach my students is teamwork and collaboration. We as an ensemble must work together to make an overall sound and that cannot be done without working together. Together we are one sound and that takes all of us.
Iowa
Myron S. Mikita, Jr.
Don Bosco Catholic School System, Gilbertville, Iowa
Total Years Teaching: 44
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment as an educator is when my band performs at a concert, festival or contest and the kids come away saying how much fun they had and how proud they are of their performance. It does not matter what we might get as far as a rating if the students felt that was their best performance and that they had fun. Whether it be a concert performance, a marching band performance or my students performing in a solo and ensemble contest, every time they perform, is my proudest moment. There will never be just one proud moment. There will be many.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to make a difference in my students’ lives by always being there for them. I feel that as a teacher, it is my responsibility to listen to my students and help them when asked. I want my students to feel that they can come to me to receive help not only from a musical perspective, but from the standpoint of being there if they need someone to simply listen. I also want to challenge my students to be the best that they can be. Through group and individual performances, I want my students to feel that they are reaching their highest potential.
What’s the most important lesson that you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I want to teach my students is to show them that they can do anything if they want to badly enough. No challenge is too great for my students. When you teach in a small school district like ours and teach all the instrumental music grades 5 – 12, you are always going to have those students that feel they are not good enough to perform on their instrument. I hope to teach them that they will be successful if they work hard enough and are accountable for what they should be doing within the band program.
Kansas
Ethan Wagoner
Derby Middle School, Derby, KS
Total Years Teaching: 10
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moments as an educator are when I witness my students go on to participate in music beyond my classroom. Whether performing in a community band, majoring in music in college, or performing and teaching with some of the top groups in the country, sharing a lasting love of music with my students is my main goal as a music educator.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
As stated above, my goal is to help instill a love of music within my students. Music has played such an invaluable role in my life that I hope to share this passion with students in my classroom. Music has the power to connect us more deeply with ourselves, as well as with many amazing people around us. My mission is to create an experience that gives my students the same connections.
What’s the most important lesson that you try to teach your students?
I have high expectations for my students. One of the most important lessons I try to teach my students is that through hard work and perseverance, they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Grit and determination not only allow us to grow beyond our perceived limitations but equip us with tools to be the best version of ourselves in all areas of our lives, not just music.
Kentucky
David Moss
Hopkins County Central High School, Morton’s Gap, KY and West Hopkins School, Rabbit Ridge, KY
Total Years Teaching: 23
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
The longer I spend in the field, the more my answer to this question changes from musical achievements to personal. Our community is still rebuilding after being hit by the tornado that swept through a large portion of western Kentucky in December of 2021. Our students were part of the recovery efforts. The resilience, character, work ethic, and dedication to service that we work to instill in our students daily has shown throughout the recovery efforts. The current and former students (and band boosters) who helped to literally pick up the pieces of our community, move people out of homes too damaged to repair. To set so much of themselves aside for the benefit of others shows that they took what everyone on our team at Central to heart, and I couldn’t be prouder of that.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
Every day I get the opportunity to help someone get a little bit closer to a goal in their life. The skills we develop in music education are the skills that are life changing—-community changing skills that, when nurtured, can last for generations. My students understand that we have immediate goals for the development of our band program, and those goals must be met because that is the expectation we set for ourselves. But, more importantly, they understand that the ultimate goal is for their success in life. Using the skills they developed in the band room in their individual pursuit of happiness.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
Value. Throughout my career, I have tried to use the power that is inherent in music education to make a difference in the lives of those in my community. Each person, regardless of any obstacles, has a place in the creation of art. Each person will gain skills that are valuable personally and professionally but also foster pride in our little part of Kentucky. Our shared goal is to make tomorrow better than today, and it starts with each of them.
Louisiana
Aaron L Theall
DeRidder High School, DeRidder, Louisiana
Total Years Teaching: 13
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment as an educator has been to see seniors who have devoted seven years to our program giving back to younger students. We have developed a culture of older students going back to the feeder schools to impart their gained knowledge upon the younger students. This is wonderful to see as it motivates the younger students as well as gives an opportunity for the older students to give back to a program that they are proud of.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
My mantra “I don’t just teach music. I teach THROUGH music” has always helped me to develop non-musical skills in my students. I love that our profession allows us to teach great life lessons to our students such as teamwork, discipline, being part of something greater than yourself, eye contact, and work ethic. These students can utilize these skills in the work force and in their adult lives.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson that I try to teach my students is to be kinder than necessary. We live in a world that is not always filled with positivity, so choosing positive thoughts and words can help make situations more bearable. This cultivates a positive environment that is welcoming and allows others to want to be a part of it.
Maine
Ashley Albert
Brunswick High School, Brunswick, ME
Total Years Teaching: 14
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
As a choral director, I’m fortunate to share countless memorable experiences with my students, both in and out of the classroom. Whether watching them take a bow after a performance or seeing them shine at state, regional, or national festivals, I am always overwhelmed with pride for their hard work and dedication.
However, my proudest moments occur right here in my classroom at Brunswick High School. As educators, the greatest measure of our success is seeing our students thrive in our absence as leaders in their own right. Nothing compares to the sense of accomplishment I feel when I watch my students lead one another, whether in a sectional rehearsal or a student-led ensemble. Their passion, knowledge, and commitment to the art of choral singing continuously inspire me. In those moments, I’m reminded that teaching’s true impact lies in what students carry forward and share with others.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
As students graduate and move on to the next chapter in their lives, I know that many of them will not pursue singing. However, I know that no matter where they go or what they do, they will always appreciate music and the arts, and the experiences we shared and the lessons we learned will continue to resonate throughout their lives. I hope to have enabled them to find confidence in their voices – both musically and personally. Beyond that, I want them to carry the fundamentals of ensemble singing with them: I want my students to understand that success comes from listening, supporting one another, and striving for a shared goal.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I strive to teach my students is the power of hard work and perseverance – that success in music and in life requires dedication, consistent effort, and the willingness to push through challenges. I also emphasize the importance of being intentional with how we spend our time – that if something is worth doing, it is worth doing well. My high school choral director had a Jim Rohn quote on his wall: “Don’t ask for the task to be easy; just ask for it to be worth it.” This quote continues to inspire me every day, and I hope it’s something my students carry with them when they leave my classroom.
Maryland
Amy Hairston
School: Springbrook High School, Silver Spring, Maryland
Total Years Teaching: 19
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment as an educator was when three of my choral students won an award from the countywide Human Rights Commission, for the Cultural Awareness Club they started, and I sponsored. Not only were they dedicated music students, but they were committed to the betterment of the local community through awareness of inclusion, equity & diversity. They planned and successfully facilitated multiple artistic activities for the entire school. I felt very fortunate to have been a small part of their success at that time.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to make a difference in my students’ lives by cultivating a love of learning, a lifelong love of music making, and by providing a safe environment at school in which they will always be welcome. My classroom motto is “safe and happy.” Even when I challenge students to work hard and take learning risks, I want them to feel supported and even joyful as they do hard things.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The lesson I try to teach my students is that caring about others is the most important thing you can do in life. Committing to each other in ensembles and on teams leads to both incredible performance results and enriching experiences. Students never forget what it was like to achieve something wonderful together, after committing to a common goal. I hope they will take that feeling far into their lives and remain strong members of their communities.
Massachusetts
Linda Ethier
Sharon Middle & High Schools, Sharon, MA
Total Years Teaching: 24
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I really can’t pinpoint just one proud moment—every “aha” moment or breakthrough a student experiences fills me with joy. However, my proudest moments come when former students return to thank me for the support I gave them, whether through listening or helping them persevere. Hearing how orchestra class made a difference in their lives and helped them overcome challenges is incredibly rewarding. It’s the lasting impact I’ve had on their growth and success that truly reminds me why I love teaching.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope my students learn the life skills that music fosters—critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and cooperation—and apply them beyond the classroom. My goal is for them to grow into kind, thoughtful individuals, not just skilled musicians. I lead with love, patience, and kindness, hoping my passion for music inspires them, but more importantly, I want them to learn how to disagree respectfully and listen without judgment. These are the values I want them to carry forward. We also make time to laugh and enjoy the process together, which is essential for all of us.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I try to teach is that steady, consistent effort leads to meaningful progress. For me, success isn’t about reaching the highest peak, but about embracing the process of growth. I often remind them that my job is to make myself unnecessary—that one day they’ll be able to contribute to the world and their musical communities independently, without needing me. It’s about empowering them to continue learning and participating on their own.
Michigan
Matt Wicke
St. Charles Middle/High School, St. Charles, MI
Total Years Teaching: 20
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
It’s very difficult for me to point to one proudest moment as an educator. I have proud moments all the time when students challenge themselves and do something that they once thought was impossible. I have had many students with natural talent and abilities go on and do amazing things in music, but those aren’t the ones that stick with me. It’s the lightbulb moments that I am most proud of. The students and I are often the only ones that understand the growth and hard work they have done to get better.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I try to make a difference by teaching students to be good people. Of course, I want them to be great musicians and students, but I want them to leave my room being better people. Gratitude, hard work, thoughtfulness; these are all things that I hope they learn from having been in my classroom.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
I love this question because my students learn Wicke Rules as they go through band class. For example, Wicke Rule #1 is “always have a pencil.” Some rules are music related, but most are life lessons that apply to everything. There are many Wicke Rules, but the most important is Wicke Rule #4, “Can’t is a four-letter word.” The willingness to improve and have grit about everything in life is the most important lesson I teach. Strive to get a little better every day, and you will be a success in whatever you choose to do.
Minnesota
Amy Giddings
School: North Shore Community School, Duluth, MN
Total Years Teaching: 28
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I can’t pin down just one moment– after 28 years, there have been so many moments where I have felt that the “planning, introduction, repetition, perform” cycle of music teaching culminated in a shining moment for one student, or an under-the-radar game-changer for another, or for a group that experienced the magic of a musical success together. I think there are more of those “small” successes throughout the years that make me proud of the work I do.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope that I have offered them enough of a variety of musical experiences and have pushed them enough through those experiences to show them they can do wonderful, challenging things. I want every single one of them to be musical for a lifetime, in whatever capacity suits them: singing around a campfire, music teacher, professional musician, lullaby singer, or an appreciative patron.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
That they can be musical in so many ways! I want them to see that there is such a variety of ways they can participate successfully in school music. If we listen to a portion of a classical piece, for example, I hope they realize that the discussion about what we heard/felt/noticed/enjoyed is just as important as the lesson where we played in a percussion ensemble or performed a new piece in harmony.
Mississippi
Louise Smith
School: Gautier Middle School Gautier, MS
Total Years Teaching: 23 years
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
Professionally, my proudest moment as an educator was when I was named Mississippi’s Teacher of the Year. Representing band directors, Mississippi educators, and music students this past year has been an incredible opportunity. Personally, my proudest moments have been watching my students meet their goals. Whether it’s putting together a fantastic concert, making district or state honor band, or finally playing a scale/rudiment with which they’ve been struggling, I’m so proud when they achieve the goals they set forth for themselves.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope they find their place in the band hall. If they’re struggling to connect, I hope they find connection in this program. I hope they feel seen, heard, and valued. While music instruction is important, it’s more important for students to feel like they are making a difference for themselves first.
What’s the most important lesson that you try to teach your students?
Failure is ok as long as you don’t wallow in failure. Learn how to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep moving forward. This is where you develop resiliency.
Missouri
Jennifer Sager
Carthage High School, Carthage, Missouri
Total Years Teaching: 26
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
It’s nearly impossible to choose just one moment that is my proudest from 26 years of teaching. The most rewarding experiences come from witnessing those “light-bulb” moments—when a concept finally clicks for a student. These moments are unique for everyone, but they always have a lasting impact. I’m fortunate to watch my students grow and evolve from 6th grade through 12th grade, and that journey is the most fulfilling part of my job. Over the years, my students become like family. Whether through good times or challenging times, we are there supporting them every step of the way.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to make a meaningful difference in my students’ lives by fostering a sense of compassion, leadership, and responsibility in everything they do. I want them to not only excel in their musical skills but also to grow as individuals who care for others and contribute positively to their communities. By creating an environment where they feel valued and appreciated, I aim to inspire them to believe in themselves and their potential. My goal is to help them develop the confidence to lead with integrity, take responsibility for their actions, and approach the world with kindness and understanding.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I strive to teach my students is to live their lives with purpose and intention. I want them to understand that success is not simply about talent or luck but is built on the foundation of hard work, perseverance, and a strong sense of character and morals. These qualities will guide them through challenges, help them make meaningful contributions, and shape their path toward achieving their goals. By embracing these principles, they can approach any endeavor with confidence, knowing that they are equipped not only to succeed but to make a positive impact on the world.
Montana
Amy Schendel
Billings Public Schools, Billings, Montana
Total Years Teaching: 22
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment was when I BECAME a music educator. I chose a profession in which every moment is about “paying it forward.” I find pride in the smallest successes of individual students but have also been able to revel in the joys of performance and pinnacle aesthetic experiences. In my current role, I have the honor of supporting and empowering other music teachers. I feel pride in their achievements and those of their students, celebrating the impact of music on the youth in our community.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I want all students to know that they have a place to enjoy, explore and learn music, regardless of experience or talent. With this philosophy in mind, students are encouraged to build a shared community in their ensemble, where they support and celebrate their peers. I hope they will look back on their experience with positivity and know that it was about much more than music. I aim to create a welcoming atmosphere in every ensemble where each member feels accepted and valued.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lessons I try to impart in students are not musical but can be taught through music! Ultimately, I want to teach students to be good humans. I wish students to learn kindness, empathy and teamwork. I want them to recognize that the whole is truly greater than the sum of its parts. I want them to learn perseverance, tackling music that seems impossible at first sight. Performing ensembles are the perfect way to learn about being a contributing member of a community.
Nebraska
Ryan Placek
Millard North High School, Omaha, NE
Total Years Teaching: 33
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
One of my proudest moments as a music educator is realizing that the culture we’ve created extends beyond music itself. When students see the band room as a safe space for everyone, I know our efforts have paid off. A few years ago, a senior wrote a note to me in which she expressed that the culture of the band, and the people involved, were the one thing in high school that kept her from harming herself. In that moment, I truly understood how the spirit of family and inclusivity had spread beyond me, thriving amongst the students. It’s a powerful reminder that our teachings often have impact in ways we may never know.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to make a lasting difference in my students’ lives by empowering them to recognize their unique strengths and contributions. Through music, I aim to foster teamwork, helping students understand the importance of collaboration and how to work together toward shared goals. I also put a great deal of effort into fostering leadership skills, encouraging students to take initiative, step up, and inspire others. By creating an environment of respect, support, and growth, I want my students to feel valued and confident. When they understand they have the tools to succeed both within and beyond the classroom, they leave feeling empowered, capable, and ready to make a difference in the world.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
In our band program, everything begins with one simple rule: respect. Respect for your music, your equipment, the facilities, the ensemble’s time, and your peers—but it all begins with respecting yourself. We believe every student is a vital part of our program, and we work to ensure they feel seen, valued, and essential. Without self-respect, it’s hard to recognize your own worth, and that sense of worth is the foundation of the supportive, inclusive culture we cultivate within our band family.
Nevada
Lhara Groberg
Del Sol Academy of the Performing Arts, Las Vegas, Nevada
Total Years Teaching: 9
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment as an educator was my choir’s first performance in the Fall of 2021 after we returned to school from over a year of online learning during the pandemic. We performed at our state’s ACDA mini-conference at the high school I attended and had a clinic with my collegiate director. Upon returning to in person-learning, students were very reluctant to show others who they were and take risks. However, these students’ passion for singing and caring for each other propelled them to move past those fears. The courage and joy they sang with reminded us of the blessing it is to make music with each other.
How do you hope to make a difference in your student’s lives?
I strive to give students tools and opportunities to build confidence, compassion and determination to overcome any challenges that come their way. My students have expressed that singing in choir helped them break out of their shells, express themselves through music and build long-lasting friendships.
What’s the most important lesson that you try to teach your students?
Singing is incredibly vulnerable, and, often, we are our own worst critics. I try to teach my students to trust themselves and trust each other throughout the learning and performance-related processes.
New Hampshire
Thomas A. Souza
Fairgrounds Middle School, Nashua, New Hampshire
Total Years Teaching: 24
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment was about twelve years ago. My eighth-grade band students secretly wrote a piece, orchestrated it, rehearsed it and performed it as a surprise at our Spring concert. One of them learned how to use notation software to create a score and print out all the parts. They rehearsed multiple times throughout the months leading up to the concert. Even the custodians were in on it. I was and still am very proud. Not only did they create a new work but were willing to go to further lengths and accomplish their goal.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I want to create curiosity. I want to have students open to seeing, hearing and feeling new and different things. By providing academic opportunities and a proper supportive culture for them to explore, they can grow and develop musically and personally.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
I often joke about important lessons. Put everything on wheels, to be early is to be on time and to be on time is to be late, don’t lose your music and don’t forget to practice are the ones they hear the most. However, what I hope they walk away with is to be present and play with passion. Look and listen beyond the notes and be heard. Each student brings a unique voice to the band and should be heard.
New Jersey
Lauren Ferguson
Victor Mravlag School No. 21, Elizabeth, NJ
Total Years Teaching: 12
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
It never gets old when you have a third grader play “Hot Cross Buns” on the recorder for a first time, nails it, and you get told “I can’t wait to go home and tell my mom!” Sharing a piece of music during a lesson and hearing a student ask to hear it again because it moved them. Getting a student to respond when they have difficulty with communication. Reflecting on the first band concert. Watching students grow from singing songs in elementary grades to winning awards at a festival/competition in middle school. Anytime my students take the stage and put forth their best effort. That is to me the proudest moment.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
Through instilling an appreciation for the world of music. Finding a way to connect in a way that is personal to generate that aesthetic response. I strive to make learning music multi-modal since I work with a variety of learning styles. We all hear the word “differentiation” tossed around in the world of education, but I really work to encompass it with my teaching so that my students can experience learning music in the best way that works for them.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The importance of trying your best even if it’s hard at first. Encouraging persistence and practice habits to get where you need to go. I set the bar high in my program, but I am there to support my students through the journey of getting over it. There is a quote about “why I teach music” that mentions not wanting your students to go off majoring in music, but to be human. I truly believe in working that ideal through sticking with the roots of values and not being afraid to ask for help.
New Mexico
Miguel Jaramillo
Lincoln Middle School, Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Total Years Teaching: 10
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moments aren’t limited to one instance, but rather every time a student gains confidence in singing or playing guitar, or masters new skills. Whether it’s performing for the first time, conquering a challenging piece, or sharing their passion with others, I feel great pride in knowing I’ve helped foster their growth. Seeing their confidence and resilience grow is deeply rewarding, and it reminds me of the positive impact I can have on their musical journey and personal development.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to make a difference in my students’ lives by fostering a deep appreciation for music and instilling a lifelong love of learning. I aim to create a supportive and engaging environment where they can discover their unique musical voice, build confidence, and develop the skills to share their passion with others. Through music, I want to inspire them to express themselves creatively, think critically, and encourage a sense of community and collaboration.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
the most important lesson that I try to teach my students is music Literacy and self-sufficiency
The most important lesson I strive to teach my students is the value of persistence as well as self-sufficiency. In music, as in life, progress often comes through consistent effort and overcoming challenges. I want them to understand that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process, and that growth happens when we embrace challenges, keep pushing forward, and remain patient with ourselves. By fostering a mindset of perseverance, I aim to help my students not only improve their musical skills but also develop confidence and resilience in all areas of life.
New York
Nicki Zawel
Ithaca High School Ithaca, NY
Total years teaching: 26
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
In my position as a high school band director, I am fortunate to have most of my students for four years. To be able to witness them grow and evolve during this time is a privilege. Beyond the significant improvements they make on their instruments, they become brave performers, confident leaders, eager listeners, and supportive mentors. Seeing them take ownership of and pride in their own work fills me with a warm sense of pride but watching them pass this along to younger players year after year makes me feel proud of the legacy they continue to uphold.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to create a space where they feel they can be their most authentic selves. A space where they know they can try, and fail, and try again, and that I’ll be cheering them on at every turn. A space where they will be greeted with a smile each day and held to a high standard. A place where they can exceed their potential and freely be the evolving artists they are. High school challenges everyone in different ways. If our space can be one of safety, inspiration, kindness, and creativity, then I think I’m making a difference in their experience.
What’s the most important lesson that you try to teach your students?
If I could narrow it down, it would be that music is community. Whether we’re making music with others or performing music for others, it is a shared experience. Being an excellent musical citizen means listening louder than you play and trying to approach each new experience with open ears, an open mind, and an open heart. As students leave my classroom each day, they pass through doors that say, “On All Days, In All Ways, Be Excellent To Each Other.” In music, as in life, this is our most important work.
North Carolina
Andrew Jimeson
Brevard High School, Brevard, North Carolina
Total Years Teaching: 17
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
Identifying a singular “proudest moment” as a music educator is challenging. Many of my students have gone on to perform in university ensembles, participate in community bands, or even pursue music as a career—each a testament to their growth and enduring love of music. However, the moments that resonate most are those when I see former students, both within and outside of music, thriving after high school. While it’s gratifying for any band director to see students continue their musical pursuits, I believe the true measure of success lies in knowing they are happy, healthy, and fulfilled.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to make a lasting difference in my students’ lives by helping them overcome anxiety and embrace discomfort as a natural part of life. My goal is to create a supportive environment where students feel encouraged and empowered to face these challenges. By emphasizing preparation, positive self-talk, and building self-confidence, I hope to guide students in turning nervousness into a source of strength. As they grow in their musical abilities, they also develop emotional resilience and self-assurance. These lessons extend far beyond music, helping students navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and confidence.
What’s the most important lesson that you try to teach your students?
At various points in life, we all face the choice between settling for “good enough” or pushing beyond what we perceive to be our limits. My goal as an educator is for every student to leave my class committed to always striving for their best. Settling for mediocrity is not acceptable in my classroom. I encourage students to always exceed the expectations of the past and set the standards for students who come after them. I want them to understand that, whether in music or life, if they have the potential to achieve more and push further, they should. Often, they discover that they are capable of far more than they ever imagined.
North Dakota
Rich Gonzales
Sheyenne High School, West Fargo, ND
Total Years Teaching: 6 years
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
As a teacher still early in my career, it’s impossible to pick just one defining moment. I am proud of every student I’ve had the privilege of teaching and firmly believe I’ve learned far more from them than I could ever teach. Some of my favorite things about my students and our program include the sense of community they’ve built, the dedication they bring to music-making, and the way each senior class mentors underclassmen, helping them step into leadership roles with confidence. And not to forget all the amazing things they accomplish outside my classroom!
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I strive to make a difference in my students’ lives by providing a safe, welcoming environment for community building, music-making, and personal growth. My hope is that, during our time together, my students will develop important life skills such as perseverance, teamwork, time management, and a deep appreciation for the arts. I also remember how challenging high school can be, and I want my students to know that I am their #1 supporter. They can accomplish anything they set their minds to!
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
I refuse to let my students say, “I can’t do this!” Instead, I strive to equip them with the tools and mindset to confidently say, “Yes, I CAN!” Equally important, I often remind my students to have fun in class, have fun in the practice room, and even have fun tackling the tasks we dislike such as chores and homework. Life is short, and tomorrow is never guaranteed. If you’re not having fun, what are you doing?!
Ohio
Shirelle Barnett
Frontier Local Schools, New Matamoras, OH
Total Years Teaching: 10
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
In this profession it is difficult to have one “proudest moment.” I take pride in many moments along the way for different reasons. However they all share the same common theme, which is students achieving their personal best and having the opportunity to share that with them. Recently, my band program went to an adjudicated concert festival in our district for the first time since we established the band six years ago. We had our best run at the festival and they were model citizens in that new experience. I was, and am still, very proud of them.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope they can know me as someone who tries to build relationships with each student and use their individual talents to improve the band program that we share. Some students are natural born leaders and are granted leadership positions, while other students may be very creative and can help with show design and flyers. Empathetic students make great mentors for first year students. Organized students make great band librarians. All students have something to offer a band program. When they feel they are valued, they become more confident and make more effort.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I try to teach students is how to have grit. Learning to have the fortitude to push through challenges rather than make excuses or give up is one of the most important lessons students can learn for the rest of their lives. Music is an incredible medium for teaching grit. Supporting students when they are out of their comfort zone and trying something new is an integral part of this lesson. I emphasize their progress rather than looking for perfection. We’re not perfect and neither are our students, but if we come back and try again tomorrow, we still have a chance.
Oklahoma
Annie Mann
Bethany High School, Bethany, Oklahoma
Total years taught: 19 years
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment as an educator is hearing from former students about the lasting impact of orchestra on their lives. Many have gone on to pursue music degrees and build successful careers in the field, and it fills me with immense joy to know I played a small part in that journey. I also cherish hearing from students who continue to play their instruments in their communities or who fondly recall their time in orchestra. Knowing that my students carry the love of music beyond middle and high school, whether by continuing to make music or by reflecting on how their orchestra experience helped shape who they are today—reminds me of the profound influence of the arts in their lives.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
More than just becoming skilled musicians, I hope my students grow to be strong, positive members of their communities. The lessons we learn in the music classroom go far beyond notes, rhythms, and technical skill. My students develop teamwork, empathy, creative expression, and critical thinking—qualities that will serve them well as they enter the workforce and society. I hope the values they gain in my class stay with them throughout their lives. Above all, I want them to know that my classroom will always be a safe space, and I will forever be their biggest cheerleader, whether their pursuits are musical or not.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
Effort is the bridge between good and great. Whether it’s playing music or mastering any skill, true excellence demands relentless effort. I strive to instill in others the belief that when you put in maximum effort, the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
Oregon
Cole Haole-Valenzuela
West Salem High School, Salem, Oregon
Total Years Teaching: 9
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I am primarily a choir director, but my first job was filling in for an orchestra position for the last four months of the school year. The students grieved their director leaving suddenly but continued to persevere and create high quality music with a director that was new to directing orchestra. Their patience and genuine care for a human inspired me to continue teaching.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to help students discover their sense of self purpose and how they fit within a community. Every day in our rehearsal we have new tasks that require specific attention and a variety of approaches. Students can practice these habits in our rehearsal and bring them to broader scenarios.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
Each of them matters. Each of them contributes to every rehearsal and every performance. There is a reason why they are in the room; they impact somebody every day.
Pennsylvania
Lynn Yealy
Delone Catholic High School, McSherrystown, PA
Total Years Teaching: 36
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
As a teacher, it is always rewarding to watch my students grow, flourish and succeed. My three elementary schools feed into my husband’s high school. He frequently works with my students, and I work with some of his as well. I am always proud to see what fine musicians and individuals these students have become as they approach high school graduation. I was especially blessed to share my passion with my own children and hear them perform in our ensembles. Spending time making music as a family was a cherished experience in my career.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I strive not only to teach music theory and the mechanics of playing an instrument to my students but to instill in them an appreciation and passion for what they are doing. I hope to give them the tools to be successful in band and in life by helping them develop listening skills, punctuality, responsibility, respect, self-confidence, and an understanding of their own importance. I hope that by the time they leave me, they will recognize that everyone has a job to do and that we all must work together to succeed.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I try to teach my students is what they do matters and that big tasks are achievable with planning, effort, and practice. Mistakes will happen. How they recover and respond to those mistakes will shape how successful they will be. Focusing on their own progress, and not comparing themselves to others, will lead to true satisfaction.
Rhode Island
Karen Anghinetti
Howard Hathaway Elementary, Portsmouth, RI
Total Years Teaching: 29
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
For any music educator, when a student persists and finally makes that breakthrough, it is always a proud moment to witness. Or, when the students join the band at our middle school and express appreciation for the learning we did in our elementary lessons that set them up for success in their new setting. More important than pride would be the touching moments when the students react unprompted to their own performance. When the children pour their heart into a song during a school performance that brings chills or tears to the eyes. There is nothing sweeter than a child’s own instrument, their voice.
I hope students value the collaboration and teamwork to sing a song as a community, play as an ensemble, or execute a play-party or dance together. I hope they remember that sound or feeling of accomplishment when they were proud of their music. I hope I can make a difference in at least one student’s confidence in contributing to something greater than themself.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
I try to teach students to respect each other’s choices. Everyone is different, has different backgrounds, different preferences, and the music they experience means different things to each of them. It is OK to make choices or take musical paths that are best for you. We are lucky at my school that students want to perform individually. We practice audience etiquette, and they learn to perform for others. We embrace opportunities to listen to others share about an instrument they brought from home, and follow up by asking them questions. The music classroom is a place where we practice listening and responsible actions toward something that is important to someone else, even if it is different from what we individually know, like, or do.
South Carolina
Daniel W. Marsh
R.C. Edwards Middle School, Central, South Carolina
Total Years Teaching: 26
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment as an educator comes each time I receive letters, emails, and notes from past students letting me know what a difference band has made in their lives. Many of these students were the high-flyers but oftentimes they were the 3rd clarinet, 16th chair player who just needed a place to fit in. These are my proudest moments.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I always hope that students leave my band program with a feeling that they have accomplished something worthwhile. Not only that they learned to play an instrument well but that they have become a better person through this pursuit of music.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I try to instill in students is that all worthwhile things in life require effort. Don’t expect things to come easy. Hard work will always win over natural talent alone.
South Dakota
Ryan Stahle
Mitchell High School, Mitchell, South Dakota
Total Years Taught: 25 years
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment as an educator was witnessing a student-led jazz ensemble perform at a local restaurant to a packed audience. Not only did I witness the results of their hard work, but I also observed the genuine enthusiasm and joy they radiated while performing together. They were truly in their element and absolutely nailed the performance! They captivated the audience, and it was such a great moment for the students – and their director!
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I emphasize to my students that my primary objective is not to solely focus on creating music majors. My goal is for my students to develop an appreciation and enjoyment of music beyond their high school years. I aspire for them to pursue musical interests in college or join adult groups. We hope to foster a love and appreciation for collaborating with other musicians and that music will always be a special part of their lives.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
I think the discipline it takes to become a musician permeates into everything else in your life. I hope that every student of mine can take SOMETHING with them into their adult lives to become better people!
Tennessee
Eric Baumgardner
Halls High School, Knoxville/Tennessee
Total Years Teaching: 30
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
Some of my proudest moments have occurred when I have former students come back and talk about their favorite memories from their time in one of my bands or ensembles. It is also rewarding to see my current and former students excel in the classroom, community groups, high school and collegiate sports, church music ensembles, careers, and family.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
By teaching my students that working together daily, despite our differences, beliefs, socio-economic standing, and political affiliations, means that we must rehearse together, support one another, and lead each other with kindness and respect. There is beauty when we all come together to create our best musical performances.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
That students take with them the importance of continuing to be lifelong learners and musicians. I have always said that my band and ensemble classes are about learning the value of hard work and striving for excellence every day. The magic is in the journey, not just the performances!
Texas
Mariah Davila
Renner Middle School of Plano, Texas
Total Years Teaching: 4
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I believe the proudest moment as an educator is witnessing students enter the orchestra room, connect with their friends, and play the instrument they love. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them find a sense of belonging and a home within the school through music.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
Music profoundly impacted my life growing up. No matter what challenges I faced or how I was feeling, Orchestra was always a source of comfort and support. Beyond that, music brought me immense joy and a sense of belonging. My hope is that our students not only find solace in music during difficult times but also experience the happiness and fulfillment it can bring to their lives.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
While I know that not all students will continue with music into adulthood, my greatest hope is that they carry with them the most important lesson I strive to teach: that with hard work, perseverance, and passion, they can achieve anything they set their hearts on.
Utah
Orien Landis
American Fork High School, American Fork, Utah
Total Years Teaching: 11
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I have had many proud moments as an educator. Moments where you just beam with joy over the accomplishments of your students. One of those happy moments came this year at BOA Grand Nationals. For the first time in nearly 30 years our program was a finalist. Hearing the announcement and then listening to the students cheer for their accomplishment was awesome! Then walking on the field for our finals performance was like a dream. I’ve watched finals with these kids in the band room and now we were there experiencing it together. The moment could not have been any sweeter.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
When I look back on my time in high school I remember the experiences. My directors worked hard to make sure we had amazing opportunities that lead to great experiences. Those experiences shaped my life into who I am today. My hope for my students is that the experiences they have with me; be it great musical moments, cultural enrichment opportunities, or learning how to just work hard, help to shape them into excellent humans. We are a sum of our experiences, and I hope the ones with me are the ones my students look back on and remember with joy.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
When we talk about hopes for students, there are many. But paramount is the hope that somehow the lessons they learn in the band room help them later in life. Attributes are so essential to success, whether you are a doctor, lawyer, mom, dad, or any kind of leader. Learning how to be kind, have empathy, have charity, to help people feel connected and special are important attributes to learn. Using music as the medium, we try to help students learn essential attributes so they can be successful as an adult.
Vermont
Heather Trutor
Essex High School: Essex Junction, VT:
Total Years Teaching: 17
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment in recent memory was the creation of my first alumni jazz band at a school fundraising event. When former students came back because they still love to play and wanted to be a part of the community we had created one more time, my heart was overcome with pride. It was as though they never left, and for a short period of time we were able to enjoy making music again together.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I hope to create a place at school that feels like a band community to students. I want them to feel safe enough to take academic risks, encourage others, and feel that they can come to our space to celebrate as well as for help. It’s through that connection and safety that we can make great strides in music. I also hope that this feeling of community extends beyond graduation: if I can be a person that’s there no matter what because of the time we’ve spent together making music, I’ll feel as though my career has had a purpose.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most important lesson I teach my students is that through music, we learn how to be great humans and citizens. Also, from Mike Balter: friends don’t let friends clap on 1 and 3!
Virginia
Carrie Finnegan
Albemarle High School & Journey Middle School, Charlottesville, Virginia
Total Years Teaching: 23
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I take my top high school ensemble to play for our feeder elementary schools every year as a recruiting tool. This is also a great way to spend the couple of weeks between our winter concert and the holiday break. We play a short concert for the 5th graders, explain their music options when they get to middle school, and show them how the instruments work. After that is when the REAL magic happens. We have an “instrument petting zoo” and all my students separate into instrument groups and allow the 5th graders to try out the instruments, helping them hold the instrument and play a few notes. It is their favorite event of the year and when the students begin playing in middle school, they always talk about how they saw the orchestra at their elementary school and they’re going to “learn to play like those kids!” I love to see my students share their love of orchestra with the younger students and it’s wonderful to see how much the younger students look up to them.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I want every student to feel that they have a home and belong here. Every student needs something but that something is not the same for every student – some need tough love, some need humor, some need TLC. I try to figure out how to connect with each student’s unique personality and needs to provide what they need instructionally, musically, personally, and emotionally.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
Only part of what I teach is music, the other part is an array of life skills. When my students graduate as a member of our orchestra program, I want them to understand the importance of respect for themselves and others, a healthy combination of confidence and modesty, other life skills that will make them successful such as punctuality, loyalty, responsibility, and organization, and the belief that each of them can make an impact.
Washington
Name: Meghan Wagner
Auburn Riverside High School, Auburn, WA
Total Years Teaching: 19
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moments as an educator come from watching my students collaborate and support one another. Building a strong sense of community within our band program is a priority for me, and when I see my students working together with kindness and generosity, it gives me a sense of fulfillment that goes beyond any test score or festival rating. Through this collaborative atmosphere, we not only deepen our understanding and appreciation of the music we’re creating, but also elevate our performance to a level that becomes a lasting memory for everyone involved.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
Each day in the classroom is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on my students’ lives. While I certainly value skill development and technical progress for every student in my program, what I most hope to inspire is a lifelong love for music and a passion for learning. There are days when students come into rehearsal looking tired, down, or disengaged, and it’s truly rewarding to watch their moods shift as they immerse themselves in playing. Music has a unique power to uplift and bring joy, offering moments of peace amidst their busy lives. My hope is that my students carry this sense of joy and tranquility with them through music, long after they leave my classroom.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
Band is a place where students develop skills that will serve them well in any career path they choose. While performance skills are an important part of what we do in music, I believe one of the most valuable lessons I teach is that persistence leads to progress, which in turn leads to understanding. I approach each rehearsal as an opportunity for students to experience success through step-by-step skill development. Since most of my students don’t take private lessons and I am the only band director at my school, the work we do together in class is crucial for their individual growth. My hope is that they come to understand that with dedication, attention to detail, and consistent effort, anything is achievable.
West Virginia
Adam Loudin
Robert L. Bland Middle School, Weston, West Virginia
Total Years Teaching: 15
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I am most proud of students who develop superior work ethic through learning to play and sing. Whether a student lacks natural ability and develops the skill necessary to contribute to an ensemble through dedicated daily practice or a very talented student finds themselves in an all-state ensemble for the same reason, the passion for practice itself makes me excited, inspired, and proud. Very few will become professional players or vocalists, but the ones who unlock the ability to learn how to develop any skill, musical or otherwise, truly learn what I’m trying to teach.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
My mission has been clear to me for many years: to inspire and empower my students to create positive social change in our school community through dedicated development of work ethic, patience, empathy, and a healthy definition of success. When the goals of the class have nothing to do with music, but rather developing all of us into better people, the musical results always follow. I am trying to show each class that we can change our world through what we do each day, even if the two things seem initially unrelated.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach each student?
I want my students to leave my classes feeling a responsibility to those around them, and I want them to feel like they have an adult in their lives who feels an intense responsibility to each of them every day. I’m not a fan of over-simplifying complex problems, but I feel that if we could all find a way to give maximum effort each day because those around us deserve that from us, all of us could feel satisfied and fulfilled. My goal is to be the example of what that looks like to my students for no reason other than that is what they deserve from me.
Wisconsin
Kristin Tjornehoj, Ph.D.
University of Wisconsin River Falls, River Falls, Wisconsin
Total Years Teaching: 44
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
One of my proudest moments is when our guest composer Oscar Navarro brought music that required much physical engagement with the music and all musicians moved their bodies and instruments. They were loving the opportunity to play difficult music and engaging in a complete, soul filled manner. “Thank you, students! You unleashed the freedom and joy of performing music and engaged not only yourself, but the entire audience. People were happy! Music was performed well. This is the ultimate joy, seeing musicians and audience engaged while making quality music.”
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
The goal is to create a life-long desire to be engaged in music for every student. Striving to be a better version of yourself, every day, on one’s instrument and in general is the ultimate aspiration. Learn to appreciate everyone you are lucky enough to perform with in any group or situation, this is ultimately the best approach to being a musician. Supporting the students and respecting their individual needs while understanding their personal and professional journey and well-being is important so I can make a difference in their lives.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
There is great joy in serving others. Every individual is important and loved by someone, and we must value uniqueness and diversity on every level. As a life-long learner, one should seek out quality while exploring the world and embracing opportunities. As a musician, you prepare your parts, bring your best to rehearsal, take care of yourself, then you can really benefit from shared growth, understanding, and enhanced musicianship. If you oversee pacing yourself, practice, listening, reading, analyzing parts, and doing sectional work, the best results will be found. Rewards come when you invest in learning and growing.
Wyoming
Ashley Lecholat
Sheridan High School, Sheridan, Wyoming
Total Years Teaching: 24
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
Throughout my 24-year career, I have experienced countless moments that filled me with immense pride. One of the highlights was being chosen by my peers to serve as the Choral Vice President of Wyoming. It was a tremendous privilege to select clinicians for the Wyoming All State Choir and select the choir itself. Other memorable moments include participating in clinics and festivals, having both of my sons involved in my program for all four years of high school, and seeing former students share videos and pictures online of their children engaging in music.
How do you hope to make a difference in your students’ lives?
I aim to encourage my students to maintain a smile despite life’s challenges and struggles; to discover a reason to be joyful and share that happiness with others. My intention in this career has never been to mold professional musicians; instead, I aspire to instill the confidence to sing a lullaby to a child, perform karaoke with friends, and spread the joy that making music brings. I want my students to be consumers of music who will hopefully serve on school boards, attend community concerts, and support music education.
What’s the most important lesson you try to teach your students?
The most valuable lesson I hope my students take away from my teaching is less about music and more about navigating life. Every Friday, I remind them to “make good choices.” Life presents us with countless decisions, and how we respond to these choices can significantly shape our lives. I often remind my students that a mistake isn’t truly a mistake if we learn from it. It’s important to be honest and take responsibility. Everyone makes errors, and that’s part of the learning process. If we hide our mistakes or become so cautious that we avoid them altogether, we hinder our own growth and learning.
