School Engagement
What began as a desire to understand how the ISO’s programs could best serve our educators (and therefore, students) became deep, meaningful relationships with incredible teachers from all around the state. In building these relationships and expanding program offerings to better align with teacher’s goals, I have been graciously welcomed into the Indiana teaching community. In 2020, I was awarded the inaugural “Friend of INASTA Award” by the Indiana Chapter of the American String Teacher’s Association, in recognition of excellence, dedication, passion, service, and commitment to the field of string education.
By serving teachers through relationship-building, I have been able to engage over 5,000 students in informal programs (school visits, musician meet & greets, historic tours, etc.) and have increased student ticket sales by 95%. Since 2015, we have sold over 37,000 student tickets. Additionally, through the thoughtful management of the Next Generation ISO program, I have granted nearly 4,000 free tickets to schools whose student populations qualify for 60%+ free and reduced lunch.
Testimonials
“My students absolutely loved the performance. Out of the class of 22, only one had previously had the opportunity to attend a performance in your beautiful theatre, and none of my chaperones have been there before! The historical tour was an excellent teaching tool…and I am so looking forward to bringing my students to as many performances as possible next year! Thank you for being a part of my students’ musical education. I so deeply appreciate it!”
— HS music teacher
“Thank you for orchestrating this event - I can only imagine how intricate and detailed the work is to make it happen. You are so amazing and it means the world to me and my orchestra students that you made this happen for us. They are truly grateful and have had so much fun preparing for this!”
— HS orchestra director
“Thank you for allowing us to hear such a wonderful concert! And for our tour and the change to speak to the players. It was a perfect day! In fact, I heard [a student] verbalize a few times during the piano solo. What a treat to be able to hear such beautiful music. Best of all, you are a perfect hostess and so enthusiastic. We loved it! ”