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2024 National Symposium

Calling all administrators, teaching artists, and changemakers working in the field of equity-based youth music programs and creative youth development!

Program Director & Manager Forum: Defining Success – for Your Program and for Yourself

September 18 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Start the school year with renewed purpose and join us for an enriching discussion on the concept of success. Network with fellow directors, share insights, and gain fresh perspectives on defining success in your music programs. Discover why finding your own definition of success is crucial for career sustainability, while still respecting and aligning with your program's mission. This forum will equip you with the tools and inspiration needed to thrive both personally and professionally. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your leadership and drive your program to new heights!

CEO Forum: Compensation Structure

September 25 @ 12:00 pm
Join us for a conversation as Jessica Zweig, Executive Director of Play On Philly shares insights from a nationwide conversation with fellow El Sistema organizations on the complexities of Teaching Artist compensation. This session will delve into the findings of their comprehensive survey, revealing how programs across the country are balancing organizational needs with the aspirations of their invaluable Teaching Artists. We'll explore job structures, compensation scales, and the critical factors that influence both organizational culture and financial sustainability. This discussion is essential for anyone seeking to understand the evolving landscape of Teaching Artist salaries within the El Sistema context in the US.

Teaching Artist Forum: Lesson Planning and Procedure Setting with Cultural Humility

Join us for a dynamic virtual workshop, facilitated by TATI and featuring guest presenter Jasmine Fripp, a Grammy-nominated music educator and founder of The Passionate Black Educator. This session will offer participants practical strategies to create lesson plans that honor and integrate students' cultural backgrounds and experiences. Jasmine Fripp will guide attendees through the process of designing lesson plans that not only support diverse learning styles but also foster musical skill development in a way that is inclusive, intentional, and transformative. The workshop will emphasize the importance of setting specific learning goals, aligning assessments, and using scaffolding to ensure that all students can succeed. Whether you're aiming to build concert-ready ensembles or develop deeper musical understanding, this session will equip you with the tools to create a classroom environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.

Teaching Artist Forum: TA Forum Teacher Talks

TA Forum Teacher Talks November 4 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Register Facilitated by Teaching Artists Training Institute The newly formed Teaching Artist Forum aims to provide a space for Teaching…

CEO Forum

Join us for a dynamic session led by Peter Compo, a DuPont veteran and strategic advisor to El Sistema USA and other Sistema-inspired programs across the U.S., as we delve into the 3Ws every board needs: wisdom, work, and wealth. We’ll explore key aspects of achieving these 3Ws, such as tracking commitments, ensuring balanced reporting, and fostering active participation in board meetings, whether in person or on Zoom. Peter will also address the critical role board members play in holding the executive director/CEO and staff accountable for meeting their commitments and maintaining proper operations.

In addition, we’ll examine the importance of developing a shared strategy between the board and executive director/CEO—one that’s not just a list of goals, nor a unilateral or "rubber stamp" approach. Finally, we’ll discuss how to tackle crises head-on, addressing difficult situations and organizational underperformance with the urgency they demand. Register now to gain invaluable insights on building a more effective, engaged board for your Sistema-inspired organization!

Program Director & Manager Forum: Best Practices for Supporting Beginning Students and their Families

Join us for a dynamic session focused on supporting new students and fostering their success. Connect with fellow administrators, exchange ideas, and explore innovative strategies to help students define and achieve their own paths to success. Learn why it's crucial to support students in finding their own definitions of success while aligning with your institution's values. This session will equip you with the insights and tools needed to enhance your leadership and provide exceptional support to students, setting the stage for their future achievements. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your impact and drive student success to new heights!

CEO Forum

CEO Forum January 8 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Register Facilitated by Gabrielle Molina Executive Director, Project Music Gabrielle Molina (she, ella, siya) is currently the Executive Director of Project Music,…

Program Director & Manager Forum: Supporting Teaching Artists

Join us for an insightful session on effectively supporting teaching artists. Despite our best efforts, teaching artists often don't receive the recognition they deserve. Many experience burnout and leave their positions in search of better benefits and support systems. While comprehensive healthcare may not be feasible for many programs, there are other ways to create a fulfilling and sustainable environment for teaching artists.

Engage with fellow administrators, share ideas, and explore innovative solutions to empower teaching artists. Learn how focusing on the teaching artist experience can lead to lasting benefits for your students and community. Understand the importance of robust support systems for teaching artists' growth and sustainability, ensuring they thrive both personally and professionally. This session will provide you with the insights and strategies needed to create a supportive and enriching workplace for teaching artists. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a significant impact and elevate the success of your teaching artists!

Program Director & Manager Forum: Meaningful Practices for Community + Parent Engagement

Join us for a valuable session on enhancing community and parent involvement in your programs. Strengthening these relationships is key to creating a supportive and enriching environment for students. This session will explore effective strategies for engaging parents and community members, fostering a collaborative spirit that benefits everyone involved.

Engage with fellow administrators, share successful approaches, and discover innovative methods to build strong connections with families and the community. Learn how active involvement from parents and community members can lead to improved student outcomes and a more vibrant, supportive program. This session will provide you with the insights and tools needed to cultivate meaningful partnerships that enhance the educational experience for all. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your community ties and drive the success of your program through active parent and community engagement!

Teaching Artist Forum: TA Forum Teacher Talks

TA Forum Teacher Talks March 17 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Register Facilitated by Teaching Artists Training Institute The newly formed Teaching Artist Forum aims to provide a space for Teaching…

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