Building Bridges: Partnerships That Transform Music Education

Discover how meaningful partnerships can elevate music education programs and create impactful learning experiences for students. Educators Mikayla Bush and Samuel Davis share their journey of building innovative music technology programs at economically disadvantaged schools. By leveraging collaborations with community organizations, school-based teams, and industry professionals, they’ve developed programs that include podcasting, DJing, live recording, and show production—all designed to engage students, foster creativity, and prepare them for success in the music industry and beyond.

Attendees will learn practical strategies for establishing and sustaining partnerships, increasing student ownership and engagement, and making their programs more visible and integral to their school communities. Key takeaways include actionable steps for aligning partnerships with program goals, involving students as active contributors, and using showcases and social media to amplify student success and advocate for music education. This session is ideal for music educators, arts administrators, and anyone looking to enhance their programs through collaboration and innovation. Whether you’re new to music technology or seeking to expand existing initiatives, this webinar provides the tools and inspiration to transform your program into a vibrant, community-centered hub for learning.

Mikayla Bush is the Music Technology Teacher at South Atlanta High School in Georgia, where she leads Hornet Studios, a program dedicated to fostering creativity and providing equitable access to music education. Specializing in music production, live show production, DJing, and podcasting, Bush equips her students with real-world skills that prepare them for success beyond high school. Under her guidance, Hornet Studios has produced diverse events, including recitals, songwriting showcases, STEAM fairs, and cross-curricular podcasts.

Samuel Davis is a Music Technology Teacher at D.M. Therrell High School in the Atlanta Public Schools System, Georgia. He currently serves as a Fine Arts Support Team Member (FAST Member), responsible for mentoring new teachers, assisting with inventory, curriculum development, planning and implementing student programs, and organizing cluster fine art showcases. He has fostered the district’s first music technology program, Panther Records, where students engage in enriching experiences that expand their creative skills through audio production, composition, live performance/production, DJ-ing, and podcasts. His students consistently engage within the school and the community, leveraging their talents to gain experience and exposure. Panther Records has been instrumental in building the school’s culture and has become well-known within the community with collaborative projects with the Music Education Group, ATL Park & Recreations, Greenbrier Mall, Atlanta City Council members, and many more partnerships.

NAfME presents this live virtual event at no charge to all as a service to the music education profession. To register, you must enter your NAfME member information or create a nonmember account. After registering, check your email for instructions. A recording of this program will be available to all registrants for one week following the live event. Members can also view archived NAfME webinars in the NAfME Academy.

The views expressed are those of the presenter; they do not necessarily reflect the views of NAfME.