Together in Advocacy

Together in Advocacy

Ohio MEA’s Efforts to Strengthen Music Education across the State

By Jazzmone Sutton, NAfME Senior Manager for State Advocacy and Equity

In 2023, Danielle Shaub, Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) Advocacy Chair, in collaboration with OMEA Executive Director Jay Wardeska, took significant steps in advancing music education in Ohio. In consultation with NAfME Advocacy and Public Policy staff, the OMEA leaders are working on various strategies to bolster advocacy efforts within the state. One result of this strategic planning was the formation of the OMEA Advocacy Committee, representing districts across Ohio.

The committee’s dedication to enhancing music education is reflected in its diverse and targeted efforts through various sub-groups. These specialized teams hope to focus on critical areas of music education to create thriving environments that nurture students throughout the state. These sub-groups include, but are not limited to, Administrative, Educating Parents, School Funding, and more.

A notable achievement thus far is the creation of their Music Advocacy video featuring a Q&A with Dr. Christen Davis, the 2024 OMEA Outstanding Administrator Award winner from Bethel-Tate Middle School. Davis’s insights offer valuable guidance for administrators on collaborating effectively with music educators, further supporting music education advocacy efforts. This video and other OMEA advocacy resources can be found on the OMEA advocacy webpage.

Another highlight of the organization’s advocacy work occurred in February 2024, when OMEA leaders invited Jazzmone Sutton, NAfME Senior Manager for State Advocacy and Equity, to present to the OMEA board during their board meeting. Her presentation focused on utilizing federal funding and legislation to amplify music education in the state. By introducing resources like the NAfME Local Advocacy Action Plan and the Grassroots Advocacy Inventory, board members were provided tangible tools to help reframe their advocacy approach that would lead to sustainable strategies that fit their needs.

As the OMEA Advocacy Committee and leaders continue their work, there is a clear focus on expanding engagement and building pathways for more individuals across the state to get involved in music education advocacy. This work is vital to ensuring that music education flourishes across the state.

The OMEA Advocacy Committee’s focus is dedicated to fostering a culture of engagement that invites more individuals—whether seasoned professionals or newcomers—across Ohio to participate in advocacy efforts. This inclusive approach is vital for the long-term health of music education in the state.

“Advocacy is a shared responsibility. When we come together to support music education, we create opportunities for all students to grow and succeed. Every voice matters in ensuring that music remains an essential part of our schools, and together, we can build a stronger future for Ohio’s students.”

—Daniell Shaub, OMEA Advocacy Chair

As we celebrate the outstanding work of OMEA and their advocacy efforts, we encourage all to join in this work. OMEA is laying the groundwork of a future where music education can flourish, ensuring that every student can experience the transformative power of music education.

Photo at top by © Ashlee Wilcox Photography, LLC

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The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) provides a number of forums for the sharing of information and opinion, including blogs and postings on our website, articles and columns in our magazines and journals, and postings to our Amplify member portal. Unless specifically noted, the views expressed in these media do not necessarily represent the policy or views of the Association, its officers, or its employees.