Be an Advocate for Music
Kim Kroeger, OMEA Liaison
A
lbert Einstein said, “Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.” I concur, and believe music advocacy is everything. It is the preview of music in Oregon’s coming attractions.
Music Educators spend a great deal of time spinning their wheels attempting to grow, or in some cases, maintain programs. Building strong music programs today requires a united village with a plan. The beginning of the school year is the perfect time to begin. Here are some suggestions you can use as a starting point:
• Communicate with Administration
• Proceed through the proper chains of command
• Let the (K-12) program needs be known
• Let specific program needs be known
• Invite and allow parents to participate
• Ask parents to form a strong Parent Booster Program
• Communicate with your School Board and attend meetings
• Be passionate, polite and professional, but persistent
• Work with your local newspaper
• Invite music professionals in your community to write editorials for the local newspaper
• The MENC website hosts many ideas—explore and discover
• Don’t give up!
A few informed, knowledgeable, articulate and well organized people can make a difference. Advocacy does take time, but it is time well spent. Use your imagination and creativity to impact music education and keep Oregon’s next musicians learning and thriving. It is important for the future of all our citizens.