Nominate a Peer

MMEA is proud to sponsor the Music Educator of the Year Award and Michael Hiatt Hall of Fame Award to Minnesota’s exceptional music educators nominated by peers.

Timeline: Application, Selection and Awards

September 15: Application Open

November 15: Nomination Deadline EXTENDED

November 15-20: Awards Committee Review

November 20: Preparation of Awards

January: Announcement of Awards

February: Awards Ceremony at MWC

Music Educator of the Year

This award recognizes exemplary music teachers throughout Minnesota that have demonstrated excellence in teaching, leadership, and advocacy in music education. 

One teacher will be awarded in each of the following categories: Elementary School Educator, Middle School Educator, High School Educator, Collegiate Educator, and Community Music Educator.

Please give a round of applause to MMEA’s 2024 Music Educators of the Year: Becca Buck, Arthur “L.A.” Buckner, Amy Comp, Kim Kroetsch, Matthew Olson, Scott Rabehl, Nicole Thietje, and Elizabeth Winslow.


Download Criteria

Google Form

Rubric

View past MMEA Educators of the Year award winners. (Updated 1.12.24)

Michael Hiatt Hall of Fame Award

The Minnesota Music Educators Hall of Fame Award is the highest honor awarded by MMEA. It was established in 1986 to recognize the legacy of outstanding music educators who have significantly contributed to the growth and development of music education in the state of Minnesota.

Beginning in 2024, the Hall of Fame Award will be renamed in memory of music educator and MMEA President Michael Hiatt. As an impactful member of the music education community, Michael Hiatt’s contributions included his many years as a classroom educator in our state to influencing public policy for music education across our state, region, and country. 

A maximum of 4 members will be selected biennially for the Hall of Fame and inducted at our Midwinter Convention, nominated in odd years for induction in the following even year.


Download Criteria


Google Form

Rubric

View past MMEA Hall of Fame inductees.