Christina Sprague Band Vice-preident
Why?
Can you believe it is December already? It seems like it was just yesterday that I was gearing up to begin year twenty-five. I hope that you have taken the time each day to think about the good things that have happened this fall. It is far too easy to dwell on that one kid who keeps missing rehearsal, that one parent who insists they know more than you do about directing bands, and that one administrator who just doesn’t get it. As you are looking forward to some much needed time off over the holidays be sure to plan time to do the things that recharge your batteries for the spring semester.
If you haven’t already done it make plans now to attend our conference in January. This is the most valuable tool for professional development available to Missouri teachers. Not only does it give you a chance to connect with other teachers, but also the clinics are invaluable to enhancing your skills in the classroom.
After reading all the surveys from our last conference (yes, your board actually reads them!) we have chosen clinics to address the needs of our membership. Several of our members requested sessions that are uplifting and include a morale boost. Our Mentoring Pre-Session includes a clinic from Dr. Frank Tracz from
winter 2016 |
www.mmea.net
Kansas State University entitled “A Noble Profession.” Dr. Tracz will remind us of the importance and urgency of what we do—why it is changing lives and making the world a better place. Tips, techniques, and methods will be offered to help you understand, appreciate, and excel in your daily routine. Even though this is listed as a mentoring session the clinic will be applicable to veteran teachers as well and I highly urge you to attend. On Thursday, Dr. Tracz will also present “The Real Not-So-Secret to Success.” This session will provide you with a boost of confidence, purpose, and energy to flourish in our chosen profession.
Many of our members requested clinics for marching band. In an effort to address this need Darrin Davis, three-time and current BOA Grand National Champion band director of Broken Arrow High School will present two clinics: “Being the Corporate CEO of Your Band Program” and “Successful Strategies for the Modern Marching Band.”
Instrument repair was another need expressed by the membership. Paul Schmidt, a repairman with twenty-six years of experience will be presenting “My Instrument Won’t Play!” Quick Fixes and Repairs in the Classroom.” This clinic will include tips and tricks for repairs using
tools and materials that can be found at any retail store. He will also present a sample budget for administrators and maintenance ideas to prevent costly repairs, and each attendee will receive a bound handbook including Paul’s instructions. Even though this clinic is at 8:00 a.m. Friday morning you do not want to miss it.
Finally, Veteran director Diana Williams of Moore High School will present, “How to Lose the Chance to Win: Your Rating, Your Job, Your Life!” This clinic is designed to help both the veteran and new teacher avoid the mistakes that will prevent successes in our programs.
At the end of the conference please take time to fill out the survey and let us know if these clinics were effective and what you would like to see on future conferences.
If your administration is reluctant to let you attend you can find some ideas to present to them at
http://mmea.net/welcome-to- mmea/. In addition, I have created a letter you can use as well. Here is the link:
goo.gl/F60JD0. Feel free to customize it in any way you need.
See SPRAGUE, pg 19
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