wmea president Music Teachers…


Communicate With Administrators


We all know that nothing good happens when there is a breakdown in communi- cation. Music teachers need to share the success stories and exciting news that comes from our music classrooms. If music teachers do not communicate with their administrators the profound benefits of music or a special accomplishment by music students, then there is a breakdown in communications. Music teachers – take the initiative to communicate with your administrators. Let them know what you know.


“Music teachers need to share the


success stories and exciting news that comes from our music classrooms.”


Get Involved in Your School


If we expect administrators to become en- gaged in our music programs, then music teachers need to return the favor and be- come engaged in the school environment, and that means reciprocating your time and energy to help your administrator. School administrators want active and engaging teachers who bring passion to the table. Not only will you have a voice in the school environment, but you can earn the respect of your colleagues in your school district.


Provide Research and Music Advocacy Go to www.wmeamusic.org, click on “Advocacy” and visit the new WAME web site. There you will find a pull down tab specifically for music teachers with the latest data and research facts to sup- port music education. Also on the site


Wisconsin School Musician


are links to www.supportmusic.com and MENC’s Make Your Case. This “Make Your Case” database will help you build a case for your music program when it’s threatened. Music education advocates can use the facts, statistics, research and anec- dotes on specific topics for presentations, speeches and other communications with school board members, administrators and legislators.


Provide your administrator with data, facts and numbers. How many students are involved in your entire music program? How many students participate in your local WSMA Solo & Ensemble Festival? How many parents have invested in music by purchasing or renting an instrument? How does your music program touch the community? And what does music educa- tion do to prepare your students for college and a future career? These are just a few questions and answers to share with your administrators. Give them the questions and answers so they can work to advocate for your music students.


Engage Your Administrator


Invite your administrator to a music class- room, rehearsal and concert. They will appreciate the invitation, even if it’s only for a few minutes. On a personal note, I in- vited our new superintendent to volunteer on stage crew for a recent school musical. Even in his busy schedule, he was able to make the time to work with both teachers and students and be part of a successful musical production. Not only did he earn greater respect from me, he earned the meaningful respect of all his students in the production.


Music teachers and administrators need to continue working together to provide a balanced education for today’s students. Whether it is a music teacher or an ad- ministrator, we all want what is best for our students. Create harmony by working together.


Richard Tengowski teaches grades 6-12 instru- mental music at Kohler Public Schools. Email: tengowskir@kohler.k12.wi.us


WISCONSIN SCHOOL MUSIC ASSOCIATION


WSMA Staff


Michael George Executive Director mgeorge@wsmamusic.org


Kerrie Brey


Finance Manager breykl@wsmamusic.org


Michelle Dietz Marketing Associate mdietz@wsmamusic.org


Mary Elsner WCME Events Manager melsner@wsmamusic.org


Kay Endres Program Assistant endresk@wsmamusic.org


Dee Farmer


Program Support Coordinator farmerd@wsmamusic.org


Richard Fellenz


WCME Operations Manager rfellenz@wsmamusic.org


Jeff Gretzinger Program Director gretzj@wsmamusic.org


Jerry Hrovat Program Assistant hrovatj@wsmamusic.org


Jamie Kember Development Assistant kemberj@wsmamusic.org


Judy Kopp Program Assistant jkopp@wsmamusic.org


Theresa McKinley Director of Technology Services tmckinley@wsmamusic.org


Rosalie Richardson Program Assistant


richardsonr@wsmamusic.org Kevin Thays


Director of Communications thaysk@wsmamusic.org


Tim Wurgler


Program Director twurgler@wsmamusic.org


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