THE NEW JERSEY MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION a federated state association of NATIONAL ASSOCIATION for MUSIC EDUCATION
News From Our Board of Directors
Retired Music Educators Kathy Spadfino
kspadeb@aol.com Every time I speak with one of my retired colleagues we say to each other “I’m so glad I’m retired!” We realize what a tough year this is, and also how hard it will be to build your programs back next year – if we’re back to normal by September. I applaud all the hard work done by NJMEA to offer many online resources to help you in the classroom, and to present the NJMEA convention in February for inspiration. I am excited about a project being undertaken by our President-Elect, Lisa Vartanian that will function as a mentoring program to all first year teachers in 2021-2022. We have met with representatives of other states that already have this program, and have gotten many great ideas from them. Stay tuned for more updates, and please get in touch with me if you are retired and would like to mentor a new teacher in your specific area of expertise.
Special Learners
Maureen Butler
maureenbutlermusic@gmail.com A new calendar year traditionally is a time to reflect on what has gone on before and to make resolutions for the future. As educators, each January presents us with a good time to evaluate the educational growth of our students. But in a school year that’s been uniquely challenging for teachers and students, it’s even more important that we do so. How have your special learners been handling the demands of in-person, hybrid, and virtual learning? Have you been able to develop lesson plans and activities that take into account their special needs? If you feel that you need some additional strategies, here are three suggestions: 1. Check out the Special Learners and Music group on Facebook where you’ll find ideas and resources. 2. Explore the many webinars available at NAfME.org. 3. Plan to join NJMEA’s virtual conference in February, where workshops will help you develop skills to better incorporate the modifications and accommodations your students need.
As always, contact me at the above email address if you have questions about special learners, or if you’d like to see a specific topic addressed in TEMPO. TEMPO
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MARCH 2021
