1
Read all criteria, application questions, and select who will complete your recommendations.
A NOTE FROM THE CMA FOUNDATION
The CMA Foundation recognizes the importance music teachers bring to their schools and communities. We developed the CMA Foundation Music Teachers of Excellence program to show our support and gratitude for the work music teachers do across the country. Over the last 5 years, the program has grown and modified when needed to better reflect the voice of music teachers everywhere. At its inception, we honored music teachers from MNPS. We then expanded our reach across our state and nation.
We continue to change with the times in making sure our application is strong and equitable to ANY public K-12 music teacher. In light of recent events, the CMA Foundation recognizes its responsibility to make sure the application and program keep the same integrity and equity we have strived to achieve in years past.
At this time, the CMA Foundation is halting the application process while we take a deeper look at how our music teachers and their students are being impacted due to COVID-19. We know many have not been in the classroom since March of 2020. We know that by the time many return to school, they will have been teaching in an online environment for 6+ months.
This program will once again adapt and be responsive to the needs of our music teachers. Please check back regularly for updates regarding our application process.
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?
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:
Exemplary Teaching
- Primary learning objectives are clear and relate to standards
- Teacher sets clear and rigorous expectations for all students
- Musical concepts and performance practices are successfully identified and appropriate for the age level of the class or ensemble.
- Teacher demonstrates a high level of musical knowledge and musicianship
- All interactions are positive and encouraging
Student Learning and Engagement
- Students are responsive and engaged
- Teacher demonstrates exemplary classroom management
- Student learning is assessed and feedback is provided
Positive Contribution to School and Community culture
- A positive and respectful culture in the classroom is evident
- The teacher and music program affect the entire school culture
- The teacher is a strong and active advocate for music education in their school and community
- The teacher serves as a consistent and positive role model for the community
Continued Professional and Personal Growth
- Participation in professional development opportunities
- Implementation of professional growth
- Leading local, state, or national professional development
HOW TO APPLY
The application process includes narrative responses, recommendations, and a video lesson demonstration. The application is currently closed.
APPLICATION STEPS
2
Begin your application right away to create your profile and send your recommenders links to complete.
3
Plan your video and lesson carefully, and prepare your narrative responses.
4
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 music education experts will screen applications. Judges may not review an application of someone they know personally or professionally. Judges will forfeit their role if they know more than three (3) applicants in any given section (MNPS, Tennessee, or Nationwide).
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
Falon Keith, Grants Associate
(615) 263-3631
