With a Little Help from My Friends
It's widely known that every profession comes with its own set of challenges, and teaching is certainly no exception. There are days when you leave the classroom feeling like you've conquered Mount Everest, and there are others when you feel like the Olympic favorite who didn't even make it to the podium. Let's not forget that life itself presents its own unique set of challenges outside of your career!
Throughout all of these experiences, I've come to believe that it's crucial to acknowledge the unwavering support that surrounds us. Below, I'd like to express my deep gratitude to the groups of people in my life who have been instrumental in keeping me on the right path, even during the most challenging times.
People who are music educators
I consider this my "focus group". We are all in similar situations and want what is best for our kids. Some of the best feedback/improvements I have made in my teaching have unintentionally been from the casual conversations we have on the phone, seeing one another at music events (marching competitions, region band auditions, etc.), or other interactions that then have inspired me to re-evaluate the way I am doing something with my students.
One of my favorite weeks of every year is when I can serve the Directors' Academy track of the Music for All Summer Symposium. It's a week-long event at Ball State University and I always look forward to meeting new people and reconnecting with returning members. I think a huge part of why this week is so special to all of us is how intimate it becomes. We eat all of our meals, watch concerts, and attend sessions together. Through it, we learn about each other's families, their programs, their struggles, and their celebrations. I always leave with new friends who I remain in contact with year-round and am there any time they need me to pick up the phone.
People who aren't music educators
I believe these people in our lives are equally as important as friends/family who understand what we do. They may not always be outside of the world of music, but their day-to-day is probably very different than what we do. Sometimes these people in our lives act as an outside well-needed perspective on things we struggle with within our profession. Sometimes they act as a way for us to take a step outside of our world for a few hours and enjoy the company of others without thinking about how to texture the trio of the march for the next concert. Regardless, I believe having people in our lives who are not engulfed in our "grind" 24/7 helps us keep perspective and balance in our own lives.
For myself, my wife and family help me in this capacity greatly. They possess a remarkable ability to keep me grounded and prevent me from becoming too fixated on any one aspect of life (ADHD at its finest), whether it's work-related pressures or other concerns. Their unwavering support is a constant reminder of how fortunate I am to have them in my life as we all navigate the hurdles of life together!
Mentors
Mentors play a critical role in our professional development. These experienced individuals generously share their expertise, insights, and guidance, helping us make informed decisions and navigate our personal and professional growth. In many ways, mentors resemble personal trainers at the gym, providing not only advice but also accountability.
Starting a mentor-mentee relationship, especially as a younger teacher, can be daunting. There's often a fear of admitting imperfection, which has become increasingly prevalent in our society (possibly due to the influence of social media). However, I've learned that the first step is to muster the courage to ask for help. Whether it's a nearby university professor, a retired band director, or a local colleague, reach out to someone! I recall someone telling me, "The worst thing they could say is 'no,' so just ask!" This advice led me to approach a nearby university director, who was more than willing to meet occasionally and discuss navigating the profession. He has since become one of my closest mentors, and despite my relocation, we maintain regular correspondence and make time for meals together whenever possible.
If you're unsure where to begin, you'll likely find several mentor networks already established in your area through organizations such as your local MEA, Phi Beta Mu, ACDA, ASTA chapters, and others. These organizations are dedicated to assisting teachers in their early years in the profession!
As you embark on your journey as a music educator, remember to lean on your friends, seek wisdom from mentors, and treasure the diverse perspectives of those outside our field. Together, they form a support system that empowers us to inspire the next generation of musicians and shape a harmonious future for all.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who have inspired me to persevere, even during the most challenging times. We're all in this together!
Yours in service,
Matt