From the Desk of OMEA President, Brian Stevens

You see, in addition to those wonderful clinics and concerts, the PDC is our greatest opportunity to have conversations with our colleagues, meet new colleagues, share our ideas, and ENGAGE with one another and our professional music education network for the betterment of our craft as teachers, our own self-care and mental health, and our commitment to high-quality music education for all students.

There is that word again….ENGAGE! While the PDC was a wonderful opportunity to have those conversations, it does not end there! As I look back on a 33-year career as a public school music teacher, I can’t help but wonder what it would have been like if I had not become involved with OMEA. It really is hard to imagine because that involvement shaped my career and what I was able to offer my students. When you have the opportunity to become more involved, I hope you will say “YES!”

Participate in Adjudicated Events: Please note that the AE Rulebook has been recently revised. There are now even more options to suit every soloist, ensemble and large group. With many new initiatives, you have the flexibility to tailor our adjudicated events to meet the needs of your students wherever they may be in their musical journey. Check out all the options.

Become an Adjudicator: The personal professional development of adjudicating is some of the best PD you can get! Listening to other groups and providing meaningful feedback will help you reflect on your own teaching and improve your own craft. With our ever-changing pool of adjudicators, there is ALWAYS a need for new, qualified teachers to provide this important service. Check out the process here.

Get Involved in your OMEA District or Region: All of our OMEA Districts and Regions have a multitude of events. Attend the district meeting to network with your colleagues, recommend students for district and region honor ensembles, attend a live or virtual workshop. There are so many ways to be involved.

Consider a Leadership Role: This past Summer, the Trustees held a one-day Leadership Retreat for potential leaders in OMEA. This event will be expanded and developed into a full Leadership Academy in the Summer of 2026. Look for information about that opportunity in future communications or talk to your District President or Region Chair about leadership opportunities. You can also fill out the Leadership Interest Form on the OMEA Website. Your preferences will be communicated to the appropriate officer or committee chair for consideration.

Elections: As you read this, elections are open for District, Region and State Officers. One of the most basic ways to get involved is to VOTE! Check out the candidates in this issue and on the OMEA Website.

MIOSM: This March marks the 40th Anniversary of Music In Our Schools Month! Look for information from our State MIOSM Chair, Grace Dickman on how you can celebrate music education and make that celebration part of your daily teaching. As I write this, it is 12 degrees outside. By the time you read it, I HOPE it will be much warmer and you will be looking forward to a season of music making, celebrating, and sharing music with your students! Have a wonderful Spring!