Volunteering with your local Music Education Association
I am just about to finish an appointment as an officer with PMEA District 1 (Vice President, President, Past President). I stepped in to fill a vacant Vice President role while still teaching public school in 2018 (before moving to composition full time - another blog post for the future sometime). There is value in service and citizenship in music. It was always crucial in how I teach music and undoubtedly has a significant role in my overall perceptions and priorities, even when writing.
As music teachers, we can significantly impact our students' lives. However, you can also extend your reach by volunteering as a music teacher for your local Music Education Association officer positions. This not only benefits your community but also provides you with the chance to develop new skills and gain valuable experience.
Here are some reasons why volunteering as a music teacher for your local Music Education Association office is essential:
Share your passion for music
As a music teacher, you are passionate about music and its benefits to students. Your enthusiasm can be infectious, and it can encourage others to become involved in music education. Volunteering with a local Music Education Association office allows you to share that passion with a broader audience. You can interact with new students and inspire them to pursue it further.
Connect with other music educators
Volunteering as a music teacher for a Music Education Association office allows you to connect with other music educators in your community. You can exchange ideas and experiences, collaborate on projects, and gain valuable insight into the field. Building relationships with other music educators can also help you expand your professional network and learn about new opportunities.
Enhance your teaching skills
Volunteering as a music teacher for your local Music Education Association office can help you enhance your teaching skills. You can develop new strategies for engaging students, explore new teaching methods, and gain experience working with diverse learners. By challenging yourself in new ways, you can become a more effective teacher and mentor to your students.
Cultivate your community
Volunteering as a music teacher for your local Music Education Association office is an excellent way to cultivate your music community. Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of those you teach and have a ripple effect throughout the community. You can help do your part to ensure that all students have access to quality music education, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.
Volunteering as a music teacher for your local Music Education Association is a valuable opportunity that benefits you and your community. It allows you to share your passion for music, connect with other music educators, enhance your teaching skills, and give back to your community. Consider getting involved today and see how it can positively impact your life and the lives of others.
For those who are saying to themselves right now, "I just don't feel like I am ready," or "I am not sure I can do the job justice on my schedule," I say. In the case of a volunteer role, the biggest hurdle is stepping forward, but when you do, you will find a network of people who will help you. Thank you for trusting me! I certainly would only be the teacher, composer, and person I am if I did not have the opportunity to serve the educators in PMEA District 1.
