As a team player I sincerely believe in the value of sharing our collective knowledge. Whether it be advice, information, strategies, or innovative teaching approaches we are stron- ger as a profession when we share what we’ve learned. I’m pleased that this issue of the Michigan Music Educator offers readers several thoughtful and thought-provoking articles. Take for example, the articles by Colleen Conway (Begin- ning Teachers and Understanding the Micropolitical Issues at School) and Wendy Matthews (Student Teaching 101: Six Student Teaching Training Tips). Both address the needs of emerging professionals with sound advice and valuable information based on the authors’ research and experience. Similarly articles by Ashley Allen (The Nuts and Bolts of the Kodály Approach) and Norma Freeman (Finding Your Prin- cipal Focus Points) provide useful information and hands on strategies teachers can adapt and incorporate into their own teaching. All of the articles in this issue reflect the authors’ generosity in sharing their knowledge while speaking to the presence of a vibrant music education community.


Where We Are Headed


We can only speculate about what the upcoming year will bring. The inauguration of Donald Trump as the 45th Presi- dent of the United States on January 20th marks the transi- tion from eight years of democratic leadership in the White House to that of the GOP. Given Trump’s controversial cabinet picks the American public can expect major changes to federal and state policies. The choice of Betsy De Vos


as education secretary is dismaying to many educators. The NEA and the AFT, the nation’s two largest teacher unions, descry De Vos’s appointment criticizing her lobbying efforts as anti-public education. Regardless of one’s personal beliefs the contentious nature of the recent election and the proposed changes in leadership at this country’s highest level leave us in no doubt that we are living in unsettling times.


What does this mean for music teachers? What can we ex- pect in the coming year? How will anticipated yet unknown changes in state and federal policies affect our students and our jobs? Will we be able to maintain the same quality music education programs we’ve worked hard to build? It is at times like this that we look to our leaders for direction and support. NAfME’s policy team continues to keep members informed of activities on Capital Hill and their implications for our profession. Our MMEA through efforts such as the upcoming Advocacy Day in Lansing continues to provide direction and leadership. In her president’s message Karen Salvador reminds us of why we teach music and of our responsibility to insure a quality music education for ALL students regardless of who they are, where they live, or what their backgrounds might encompass. Advocacy is central to fulfilling this responsibility and Salvador shares strategies for how music teachers can contribute to advocacy efforts in both local and state arenas. Her advice is heartfelt and pas- sionate yet sensible and sincere. I encourage you all to read and take to heart President Salvador’s message.


The editorial board urges readers to submit articles of interest to our profession, and encourages this impor- tant professional development activity for all members. Articles may be authored or co-authored, address other relevant topics/areas (see columns, at right), and may be considered at any time. Submitted articles will be peer-reviewed by the editor and editorial board mem- bers with editing and production in process for 5 to 6 months ahead of the publication date. See the published Guidelines for Contributors (on page 33 of this issue) for further information.


Articles may be submitted electronically to the Editor: abby.butler@wayne.edu


Editorial Board


Phillip Hash Collegiate


Colleen Conway


Book & Media Reviews Marie McCarthy


Instrumental


Erick Senkmajer Strings/Orchestra


Val Palmieri Choral


Charles Norris General Music Heather Shouldice


Higher Education (SMTE) Ashley Allen


3


MMEA Editorial Board Positions Research


Technology Vacant


EarlyChildhood (SGM) (see General Music)


Adult Learners Shirley Lemon


Policy/Advocacy Lisa Furman


Social Justice/Diversity Vacant


Composition Vacant Jazz


Keith Hall


Special Learners Angela Snell


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