More Than a Rehearsal: A Music Teacher’s Guide to Acing Observations

What does a strong music lesson look like through an administrator’s eyes? In this dynamic session, Kamil Cooper and Principal Troy Cato bridge the gap between rehearsal-based instruction and formal teacher evaluations. Using the ADEPT model as a framework, they will guide music educators through designing and delivering lessons that meet (and exceed) observation expectations—without abandoning the core of what makes music classrooms special. Learn how to structure your teaching, highlight student learning, and document progress in ways that resonate with administrators. Whether you teach band, choir, or general music, you’ll leave with ready-to-use tools and strategies to turn your everyday rehearsals into high-impact, observation-ready instruction.

Kamil Cooper is the Director of Bands and Fine Arts Chair at Lakewood High School in Sumter, South Carolina. Previously he served as Assistant Director of Bands at Johnson C. Smith University, where he had earned a bachelor’s degree. He went on to earn a master’s degree and a doctorate in Educational Administration from the University of the Southwest. His doctoral dissertation explored the comparative participation rates in performing arts versus athletics in South Carolina schools. Under his guidance as Director of Visual and Performing Arts at Florence School District 4, the district received more than $130,000 in grants, and the school district’s band program expanded from 12 to 45 students.

Troy Cato currently serves as the Principal of Hillcrest Middle School in Sumter, South Carolina. A graduate of Benedict College, he served as Director of Bands at Sumter High School, Wilson High School, and Manning High School. Under his direction, ensembles consistently earned Superior ratings and were recognized with numerous Outstanding Performance Awards. His students were frequently placed in Region and All-State Bands and actively participated in professional music organizations. At Lakewood, Troy plays a key role in the school’s academic progress, contributing to rising graduation rates and improved testing outcomes, along with leading the efforts in teacher observations and evaluations, using ADEPT 4.0. His unique perspective as a former band director and current administrator informs his commitment to excellence in education at every level.

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.