elementary general music
Making the Invisible Work Visible: The Many Hats of a Music Teacher Jody Sturmer, WMEA State Chair, Elementary General Music
Do you ever feel like you spend more time juggling re- sponsibilities than actually teaching music? As music educators, we wear so many hats as a mentor, event plan- ner, advocate, deco-
rator, problem-solver, and the list goes on. Our work is incredibly important to our students, yet much of what we do behind the scenes goes unnoticed.
Concert Planning: The Unseen Effort
A performance is not just about singing a song. It requires careful repertoire selec- tion, hours of rehearsal, coordinating props, choreographing movements, organizing logistics, and so much more. Many of us find ourselves staying late at school, espe- cially around the holidays with decorating, preparing materials, organizing students and communicating with teachers to make
sure everything runs smoothly. Tip: If you find yourself overwhelmed during concert season, consider delegating tasks to parent volunteers, older student helpers, or staff members who are willing to assist.
Expanding Impact Beyond the Music Room
Many music educators also take on re- sponsibilities beyond their classrooms. I recently helped start a hygiene program at our school after noticing that some students’ basic needs were not being met. Along with a small team, we created an intervention process where teachers can report concerns, and we then work with families to offer support, whether that means providing hygiene supplies, haircuts, or even access to showers.
If you see students struggling with hygiene or other personal needs, consider working with your school nurse, counselors, or other staff members to create a system of support. Small interventions can make a big differ- ence in a child’s ability to focus and thrive.
“As music educators, we wear so many hats as a mentor, event planner, advocate, decorator, problem-solver, and the list goes on.”
Student Leadership in the Music Classroom
Another way to build a positive school culture is by encouraging student leader- ship. I run our 5th Grade Leadership Team, where students apply to take on service roles in the school. We organize activities like reading to younger students, playing bingo at nursing homes, running food drives, and most recently, launching a Big Buddy Program, where fifth graders mentor younger students.
Consider how leadership opportunities can fit into your own program. Can older students assist in setting up concerts, lead- ing warmups, or mentoring younger musi- cians? Encouraging responsibility builds confidence and strengthens the sense of community in your classroom.
Remember: Your Work Matters
So much of what we do as teachers hap- pens outside the classroom, often without recognition. But even when our efforts go unseen, they matter. Whether it’s staying late to set up for a concert, advocating for a student’s well-being, or creating leadership opportunities, the impact we make lasts far beyond the school year.
Jody Sturmer is the K-5 elementary music teacher at Winskill Elementary in Lancaster.
Email:
sturmerj@lancastersd.k12.wi.us 20 April 2025
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