The Bethel-Tate Middle School music program is once again reveling in the spotlight with yet another national award.
For the second time in as many years, BTMS was selected by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation for a SupportMusic Merit Award for 2024. Out of the whole nation, the middle school is one of a select group of 122 schools to be recognized – one of five in Ohio.
Earning this honor last year was a pleasant surprise, acknowledged BTMS music teacher Paul Glader. This second award is thrilling and serves as affirmation that the BTMS music programs are truly a part of the #BestCommunitiesforMusicEducation.
“I am always so proud of our students and music program and am grateful for all of the support we receive from our administrators, teachers, and community. I want to build a model of success for other small-school music programs and this award affirms my belief that we are doing so.”
The SupportMusic Merit Award recognizes individual schools that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.
“We are extremely proud of Mr. Glader and impressed by his ongoing efforts to elevate the music program to best benefit the students,” Superintendent Melissa Kircher said. “His enthusiasm and passion for music education is contagious and ultimately benefits all district students.”
BTMS Principal, Dr. Christen Davis, echoed these thoughts adding, “Paul continues to promote and find ways to showcase our amazing music program along with all of the hard work and dedication he and our students and parents put into making it so successful. He is the best!”
The middle school music program consists of the 6th through 8th grade Bands and Choirs. They are all under the umbrella for which the school was recognized. There is also an after-school band program and a talent show.
To qualify for the SupportMusic Merit Award, Bethel-Tate Middle School answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
Specific aspects of the BTMS music program factored into this award include:
- Support from the Superintendent, Principals, Board of Education, Teachers/Staff, Parents, and Community Members
- The high percentage of students in honor band and honor choir
- 2021 Ohio School Boards Association Capital Conference Student Achievement Fair Selection
- Commitment to meeting high music standards within the Ohio State standards
- High percentage rate of students taking music as an elective at BTMS (44% of the student body in 2023/2024)
- ESSER Funds designated for the BTMS music program in 2022
- Successful after-school band program offered to students
- 2022 Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Teacher of the Year – Paul Glader
- 2023 NAMM SupportMusic Merit Award Winner
- 2024 Administrator of the Year Winner from the Ohio Music Education Association – Dr. Christen Davis – Principal
- 2024 Advocacy in Action National Award Winner from Music for All