Four officers of the Alabama Collegiate National Association for Music Education completed varied professional development experiences this summer to prepare for careers in music teaching, according to a report from the Alabama Music Educators Association. The group engaged in activities spanning performance, camp counseling, program logistics, and federal advocacy.
Sarah Beth Black, the state president, performed with the Madison Scouts Drum & Bugle Corps for her final eligible season, an experience the association says builds discipline and leadership. Vice-President Mary Cole Kinney served as a counselor at Interlochen Arts Camp, where she mentored students and observed master educators to refine her teaching methods, the source states.
State Treasurer William Clay worked as an instructor and logistics coordinator for the Homewood High School Bands while also attending an Alabama Music Educators Association executive board meeting, the report notes. Secretary Hannah Herring worked at a vocal music camp before traveling to Washington, D.C., for the NAfME National Assembly. During that trip, she participated in Hill Day to advocate for music education funding with congressional offices, according to the association.
The Alabama Music Educators Association indicates these roles help collegiate members develop skills in collaboration, advocacy, and servant leadership ahead of the upcoming school year. The organization invites members to attend the CNAfME Fall Summit on September 20 to continue this professional growth.
For more information, visit myamea.org.