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Read all criteria, application questions, and select who will complete your recommendations.
MUSIC TEACHERS OF EXCELLENCE
APPLICATION PROCESS & CRITERIA
WHAT IS A MUSIC TEACHER OF EXCELLENCE?
The Music Teachers of Excellence award supports educators who demonstrate exemplary teaching and student learning, and are committed to making a positive impact on their school and community while raising awareness for the broader cause of music education. In addition, the ideal candidate can confidently overcome challenges in the classroom and is constantly seeking opportunities to continue to develop themselves professionally. We’re calling on ALL extraordinary, inspirational music teachers for this year’s Music Teachers of Excellence. Does that sound like a someone you know? Are you that teacher?
FAQS
HOW TO APPLY
The application process includes narrative responses, recommendations and a video lesson demonstration. The 2023 application is now open through Friday, March 3, 2023 at 11:59PM CT.
APPLY HERE
CRITERIA
The Music Teachers of Excellence award is open to full time, public school music teachers who have at least 4 years of experience. Teachers who have won three years in a row must take (1) year off from applying.
The entirety of this application and process has been reviewed by and based on the recommendations of teachers. The application responses and all supporting materials should provide a comprehensive overview with clear evidence from the past 3 years based on the following judging criteria:
Professional and Personal Growth
- Demonstrates an exemplary level of musical competency and personal musicianship with depth and breadth
- Continues professional and personal development through:
- Participation in and presenting at state and national music organizations and conferences
- Leading local, state, or national professional development
- Earning advanced degrees or certifications
- Seeks musical and non-musical self-learning opportunities to enhance effectiveness in the classroom
School and Community Contributions
- Promotes positive and respectful interactions in the classroom as a model for the school community at large
- Functions as a consistent and positive role model though community engagement and/or service-learning opportunities
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to music education for all through advocacy in both school and community settings
Student Learning and Engagement
- Utilizes teaching strategies that actively engage students in learning with and from their peers
- Creates an inclusive learning community in which all students are valued and can experience success
- Demonstrates effective classroom management based on clear expectations for all students
- Uses standards-based learning objectives and valid assessment tools to provide student feedback and to inform teacher lesson implementation
- Implements best teaching and performance practices to provide age-appropriate learning activities in non-performance and performance-based music classes
APPLICATION STEPS
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Begin your application right away to create your profile and send your recommenders links to complete.
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Plan your video and lesson carefully, and prepare your narrative responses.
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Confirm your recommendation questionnaires are submitted and complete the online application.
SELECTION PROCESS
STEP 1
The CMA Foundation staff will review all applications for due diligence. Only those applications that are completed will be passed along to the judging panel.
STEP 2
A national panel of education experts will screen applications. Judges may not review an application of someone they know personally or professionally.
STEP 3
The judging panel will review each application for completeness and adherence to selection criteria. Recommended finalists will be sent to the CMA Foundation for final review.
For more information on Music Teachers of Excellence application contact
Franklin Willis, Community Impact Director
(615) 664-1640
