I recently have been thinking about the impact that my band directors had on my life. I had a different director almost every year that I was in school until I got to college. From seventh and ninth grade band with Dr. Wayne Cameron, to high school band with Bill Hickman, Bill Lazenby, Bill Mallory, and Dr. Tom Hunter and then college with Dr. John M. Long. Those teachers made an impact on me. They mentored me in ways they may have never realized. They inspired me to be a lifelong learner and it is that type of mentorship that we as teachers must realize we possess as well.
Mentorship is crucial in personal and professional development. It provides guidance, support, and encouragement, helping individuals navigate challenges and make informed decisions. A good mentor offers insights from their experience, helping mentees avoid common pitfalls and learn from others’ successes and failures. Mentorship fosters growth, builds confidence, and often accelerates progress by providing a roadmap that might otherwise take years to develop independently.
Moreover, mentorship goes beyond just skill development. It often plays a significant role in shaping values, attitudes, and professional behavior. Mentors can inspire mentees to reach their full potential, encouraging them to aim higher and think more critically about their goals. For those in teaching or leadership roles, mentoring can be particularly rewarding as it allows them to pass on their knowledge and contribute to the development of the next generation.
As educators, we carry the responsibility of being role models not only for our students but also for our peers. Learning from the experiences of others is an invaluable education! Our actions, attitudes, and commitment to excellence set the tone for the learning environment, influencing both the young minds we teach and the colleagues we work alongside. By embodying professionalism, integrity, and a passion for lifelong learning, we inspire others to strive for their best, creating a positive and impactful educational community.
One of the ways to be a role model to our peers is by attending our annual AMEA Professional In-Service Conference, January 23-25, 2025 at the beautiful Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex in Birmingham. We have wonderful concerts planned by Pizitz MS Honor Band, Fairhope HS Wind Ensemble, Grissom HS Symphonic Band, Thompson HS Wind Ensemble, Tuscaloosa County HS Percussion Ensemble, Bumpus MS Jazz and Percussion Ensemble and Jacksonville State University Brass Band. We also have several clinics that should provide our teachers with valuable information and inspiration. Check out the schedule that is listed in this issue of the Ala Breve. Registration is available online. Make sure you have renewed your NAfME and AMEA membership, prior to registering.
We have several ABA reminders: Please make sure you register and/or update your contact info on the alaband.org website. If you are new to our state or are a first or second year teacher, please make sure you contact your District Chairman and Vice-Chairman, so they are able to provide you with up to date information regarding all things ABA! Please make sure you read our bylaws regarding MPA, All-State Auditions, Solo and Ensemble, and Jazz Education related items. Also on the website, we have hotel links for All-State Band.
Please make sure you are aware of events and registration deadlines. Your District Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen work diligently to provide all of this information to our membership. In order to avoid late fees, refer to your calendar frequently and make sure you are sending your payments to the right person. If you are not sure, ask your Chairman. They are there to help and I appreciate all they do to serve our organization.
In closing, let’s have a great representation at our AMEA Conference! Let’s make this the year we make the students our priority, we strive to be the role model that brings a positive light to our professionalism, serve with integrity beyond approach, and a passion for the work we do.