From the President

What an honor it is to write to you for the first time as your OMEA President! I teach at Lake Local Schools in Stark County, and like many of you, I spend my days surrounded by first attempts — first notes on a recorder, first time singing and playing in front of classmates, first time realizing that music is something you can do, not just something you hear. Those firsts never stop mattering, no matter how long we've been teaching. So as we begin a new school year full of firsts, I want to invite you to make one more: your first (or next) step toward deeper engagement with YOUR professional association. OMEA is a volunteer-powered organization, and it is only as strong as the members who step forward. Remember — WE ARE OMEA!

One of my goals this year is simple: to listen, and to ensure OMEA continues to be a community. Beginning Sunday, September 6th, I will host our President's Office Hours on the first Sunday of every month from 7:00-8:00PM — an hour to talk, listen, and connect. This is a "Common Time" set aside for YOU. Bring your questions about OMEA, your challenges in the classroom, or simply your story. No agenda, just a conversation among colleagues. Stay for the full hour or just a few minutes; whatever your evening allows. Each month, the meeting link is the same. Join here.

We also want to make sure Ohio hears the incredible things happening in music classrooms across our state. This year, we are launching Talking Point Tuesday on OMEA's social media platforms — a weekly spotlight on educators, students, and stories from every corner of Ohio. Do you know a colleague doing remarkable work? A program that deserves a wider audience? A moment from your classroom that captures why music education matters? Follow OMEA on social media, share these posts with your community, and send us your stories. Every post is one more talking point for music education in Ohio. Submit your topic here.