In a remarkable display of dedication and excellence, three exceptional music teachers from the Ann Arbor Public Schools (AAPS) have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the field of music education. Misty Noble, Katie Ryan, and Jeff Willets have been awarded the prestigious Phyllis Kaplan Leadership Award for Excellence in Mentoring General Music Teachers, presented by the University of Michigan Department of Music Education.

Empowering the Next Generation of Music Educators

Recognizing Exceptional Mentorship

The Phyllis Kaplan Leadership Award is a testament to the profound impact these three educators have had on the lives of aspiring music teachers. This prestigious accolade is designed to support outstanding music education students, teachers, faculty, and special programs that have the potential to elevate the field of general music. By honoring Noble, Ryan, and Willets, the University of Michigan Department of Music Education has acknowledged their unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of music educators.Over the past two decades, these three exceptional teachers have left an indelible mark on the School of Music, Theatre & Dance, contributing to the continued growth and development of the music education program. Their dedication and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the careers of countless student teachers, ensuring that the art of music education remains in the hands of passionate and skilled practitioners.

Exceptional Educators, Exceptional Mentors

Misty Noble, Katie Ryan, and Jeff Willets have each been recognized as Exceptional Teachers within the AAPS District News, a testament to their exceptional teaching abilities and their unwavering commitment to their students. Their collective experience spans over three decades, during which they have honed their craft and become respected leaders in the field of music education."I am honored to have called these teachers my colleagues for the past 30 years, and so proud of the work they have done both in their classroom and for the continuing education of student teachers," said AAPS Fine Arts and Special Programs Coordinator Kimberly Coulson-Mobley, underscoring the profound impact these mentors have had on their peers and the broader educational community.

Fostering a Passion for Music Education

The Phyllis Kaplan Leadership Award is not merely a recognition of the recipients' achievements; it is a symbol of the profound influence they have had on the lives of their students and the future of music education. By serving as mentors and role models, Noble, Ryan, and Willets have inspired countless aspiring music teachers to pursue their passion and strive for excellence.Through their dedication to their craft, their unwavering support for their students, and their commitment to the ongoing development of the music education field, these three exceptional educators have left an indelible mark on the profession. Their legacy will continue to inspire and guide the next generation of music teachers, ensuring that the art of music education remains a vital and vibrant part of the educational landscape.The presentation of the Phyllis Kaplan Leadership Award took place on Saturday at the School of Music, Theatre & Dance, where the recipients were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the field of music education. This recognition serves as a testament to the power of mentorship and the transformative impact that exceptional educators can have on the lives of their students and the broader community.