Category: Advocacy
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Creating Advocacy in Today’s Teaching Environment, A Perspective by Bill Wittman
As I reflect on today’s teaching environment, compared with the years when I was an active public-school teacher, I recognize that much has changed. Yet many of the most important principles remain the same. Communication continues to be one of the strongest keys to success in any educational program. Students must understand what we communicate…
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Bridging the Gap: Music Careers, Entrepreneurial Mindsets, and College Pathways by Annie Booth, Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies, University of Colorado Boulder
At a certain point back in high school, I knew I wanted a career in music. But when I tried to imagine what that might look like, all I saw was a blank slate – and not in a good way. In my mind, there were two possible paths: becoming a piano teacher or pursuing…
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Empowering Music Educators: Leadership Academy Insights by Stephanie Bonitz, Editor
Great music education doesn’t stop at the podium, it requires vision, strategy, and bold leadership. That’s where the Charles H. Benner Leadership Academy comes in. As OMEA’s leadership initiative, the academy empowers current and rising music educators across Ohio to step up, refine their skills, and help shape the future of our profession. Originally launched…
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Advocating for Music Education: Lessons from Capitol Hill by Austin Ahlborn
Arts and music education inherently bring people together. During recent visits to congressional offices, our advocacy team was repeatedly reminded of this universal appeal. Lawmakers and staff members from all backgrounds frequently shared their own personal connections to music and the arts. While advocacy work involves many moving parts, its true foundation relies entirely on…
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Alumni Programming-Connecting Generations-RAMP by Amy Phillips
From our Winter 2026 edition of the OMEA TRIAD, this article details the community engagement possibilities for school districts across the State of Ohio. Ben and Nancy Rose, Lima Senior High School graduates, initiated the Rose Alumni Music Program (RAMP) in 2017, connecting alumni in music with current students. The multi-generational project enhances students’ experiences,…
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Knowledge is Power: Leveraging Public Information to Advocate by Austin Ahlborn
Written for our Winter 2026 edition of the OMEA TRIAD, this article is still relevant today as music educators navigate our changing education systems. Music educators can advocate effectively by understanding district finances and policies, particularly through board meeting minutes and contracts. Using public records requests can further enhance advocacy efforts by providing essential data…
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Try-M: What exactly is Tri-M and Why You Should Start a Chapter by Amy Thompson
What Exactly Is Tri-M? Tri-M is a nationally recognized music honor society. It’s an honor society for kids who are involved in and love music. It is a service organization rooted in music. The way each chapter fulfills this is as unique as our music programs. Why Should I Start a Chapter? We are not…
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Revisiting Reflective Practice: Ideas for Music Educators by Dr. Lisa Martin
Reflective practice in music education is vital for professional growth, allowing educators to critically analyze their methods and beliefs. It involves setting aside time, addressing challenges, and questioning the status quo. Reflection should occur at various stages and depths, celebrating successes and identifying areas for improvement to enhance teaching effectiveness.
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Learning from Our Mentors: Philosophies in Practice by Rohit Kolluri
This article from the 2023 OMEA TRIAD explores the development of teaching philosophies among band directors in Central Ohio, focusing on mentorship, student connections, and personalized instruction. Interviews with nine directors reveal that impactful mentors and the balance of rigor and enjoyment in teaching significantly influence their approaches, ultimately fostering strong relationships with students.- Stephanie…
