Committee Updates

The Power of Advocacy: Strengthening Music Education in Ohio

Danielle Shaub, OMEA Advocacy Chair

Danielle Shaub,

OMEA Advocacy Chair

As we read the final TRIAD issue of the year, it’s a great time to reflect on the progress we’ve made in advocating for music education across Ohio. From Music In Our Schools Month (MIOSM) proclamations to legislative outreach, our collective efforts have continued to highlight the vital role music plays in every child’s education.

One of the major advocacy wins this year was securing an official proclamation for MIOSM, reinforcing the importance of music education at the state level. This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration between educators, students, parents, and policymakers. When we amplify our voices, we can make real change. Beyond the proclamation, OMEA members and music educators across the state have been actively engaging with their communities. This includes school board meetings, parent organizations, and public performances, demonstrating the undeniable value of music education in our schools.

Looking Ahead: Advocacy in Action

While we celebrate these victories, we must also recognize that advocacy is an ongoing effort. Looking ahead, planning is already underway for Hill Day in June 2026 in Washington DC, where we will meet with legislators to discuss key issues affecting music education in Ohio. These discussions will focus on:

The requirement for certified music educators in every music classroom, ensuring that students receive high-quality instruction from trained professionals.
The establishment of a high school graduation requirement for music, which would solidify music’s role as a core academic subject and ensure that students have access to music education throughout their academic journey.
Sustaining and expanding funding for music programs, addressing disparities in access to quality instruments, resources, and professional development for educators.

In addition to these legislative efforts, local advocacy remains just as critical. Every conversation with an administrator, every email to a school board member, and every student testimony shared in support of music education makes a difference. OMEA members are encouraged to continue their advocacy efforts by:

Inviting local decision-makers to school concerts and music events.
Sharing student success stories that highlight the impact of music education.
Engaging parents and community members in advocacy initiatives, empowering them to speak out in support of music programs.

Showcasing the Arts: A Community-Wide Advocacy Event

One of the most effective ways to advocate for the arts in schools is through a Showcase of the Arts, a district-wide event that brings together students, families, educators, and community members to celebrate the power of music, visual art, STEAM, and physical education. These events not only highlight student achievement but also demonstrate to stakeholders why continued support for arts education is essential.

How to Organize a Successful K-12 Showcase of the Arts:

Form a Planning Committee: Include representatives from music, visual art, STEAM, and physical education, as well as administrators, parent volunteers, and student leaders. Assign roles for logistics, promotion, and event coordination.
Secure a Venue: Consider using a school gym, auditorium, or multiple spaces to accommodate performances, art displays, and interactive exhibits.
Schedule Ensemble and Solo Performances: Feature a variety of music ensembles, including choir, band, orchestra, and small group or solo performances from students across grade levels.
Display Visual Art: Create an interactive art gallery featuring student work from all grade levels. Consider live art demonstrations or hands-on stations where attendees can participate in the creative process.
Integrate STEAM and Physical Education: Showcase student-led STEAM projects, robotics demonstrations, or interactive science and technology exhibits. Highlight physical education through live activities, wellness challenges, or dance performances.
Invite Key Stakeholders: Encourage administrators, school board members, and local government officials to attend. Provide them with an opportunity to engage with students and witness the impact of arts education firsthand.
Promote the Event: Use school newsletters, social media, and community partnerships to spread the word. Encourage student involvement in creating posters, digital invitations, and announcements.
Incorporate Advocacy Messaging: Include informational posters with data on the benefits of arts education, testimonials from students and alumni, and ways for attendees to support arts programs.
Capture the Moment: Document the event with photos and videos. These can be shared with district leaders, local media, and advocacy groups to further promote the importance of arts education.
Follow Up: After the event, send thank-you notes to attendees, performers, and volunteers. Share highlights from the showcase and encourage ongoing support for arts programs.

Continuing the Momentum

As we move forward, we must remember that advocacy is not just about policy, it’s about people. It’s about ensuring that every child has access to a comprehensive music education that demonstrates their creativity, critical thinking, and personal growth. It’s about standing together as a community of educators, students, and supporters who believe in the transformative power of music.

Thank you for your dedication to the field of music education. Your passion and persistence are what drive meaningful change. Let’s continue to make our voices heard and ensure that music education remains a priority in every Ohio school.

If you’re interested in getting more involved in OMEA advocacy efforts, please reach out. I would love to connect and work together to strengthen music education across our state.

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