Music and arts educators play a vital role in inspiring creativity and enriching students’ educational experiences. Through their leadership and dedication, they provide opportunities that help students discover their passions and develop valuable skills.
In recognition of these efforts, the Orange County Music and Arts Administrators — or OCMAA — is accepting nominations for its annual awards program, celebrating teachers, administrators and community advocates who have made a significant impact on arts education in Orange County. Nominations open Friday, Sept. 6 and will close on Friday, Oct. 25.
“It is amazing to see the creativity that has been emulated by the leaders in the area of arts education here in Orange County,” said Scott Fitzpatrick, arts coordinator at the department. “The nominations that came last year demonstrated the shared strength of character of so many amazing people in different areas and roles and responsibilities.”
The awards program seeks to honor outstanding individuals who go above and beyond to support arts programs, whether as teachers who inspire excellence in their students, administrators who champion and expand arts education, or community advocates who have supported the development and growth of school arts programs.
“Meeting these extraordinary leaders through these county-wide awards is truly one of the honors of my job here at OCDE, and I am excited to see this year’s nominees,” Fitzpatrick said.
Award winners will be announced on Dec. 2and honored at the annual Orange County Music and Arts Administrators Awards reception and ceremony, which takes place next year on Feb. 12 at the Samueli Theatre at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The event will feature presentations from districts and arts organization leaders, along with student performances.