Our Very Own Star: Mr. Holley!

The Biggest Night in Music of the Year. As the artists, producers, directors, etc. sit in anticipation as the envelope slowly cracks opens revealing the winner, they might remember all those that helped them along the way. The Grammy Music Educator of the Year Award was created to honor teachers that lent assistance and provided hope to these young music enthusiasts. Our very own, Mr.Holley, is one of those incredible teachers that you will remember for a lifetime! I have had the great honor to talk to the Grammy Music Educator of the Year nominee and share what I have learned with all of you. Without further ado, I present to you all Mr.Holley!

Q: Could you tell us a bit about the Grammy Music Educator of the Year Award?

A: The award is presented by the Recording Academy and the GRAMMY Museum, the Music Educator Award was established to recognize current educators (kindergarten through college, public and private schools) who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education and who demonstrate a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in the schools.

Q: Where were you when you found out about the nomination?

A: I was notified by email in March.

Q: Could you describe how you are feeling about receiving this honor?

A: I feel honored and privileged to be recognized.

Q: What works did you complete at Wills Junior High?

A: My award is based on the work I have been doing with the Willis Choir for the past two years.

Q: Could you explain the nomination and advancement process?

A: There is another round of submissions through written and video submissions. These are some of the questions to answer for the next round of submissions:

• One of your proudest moments as a teacher.
• One of the most significant challenges and how you address or have addressed it.
• What unique, innovative teaching methodologies do you implement in your classroom?
• Other ways you have made and continue to make a positive impact as a music teacher.
• How you are making a measurable difference in the lives of your students?
• How you are making significant impact on your school and the surrounding community.
• How you are making significant and lasting contribution to the field of music (research, etc.).
• How have you demonstrated a commitment to the broader cause of advocacy for maintaining quality music education in the schools?

Q: Last question and arguably the most important, if you win this award, what will you wear to the 63rd Annual Grammys?

A: I would wear a sensible professional suit.

I would like to thank Mr.Holley for taking time out of his day to talk to me about this honor and would like to congratulate him on behalf of the entire ACP family on the nominee and wish him luck as he advances onward. I know that I, along with many other Knights, will be watching the 2021 Grammys on January 31st and hopefully, we will get to catch a familiar face in the audience! Until then, don’t forgot to strive for the impossible and be extraordinary!