An Experience in Equity 

Jared L. Cassedy, K-12 Performing Arts Coordinator
Lexington Public Schools, MA

Jared Cassedy

“At the end of the day, music is about bringing people together, welcoming them in, and celebrating the diversity that exists within its make up. I reflect back over the experiences I have had and am so thankful to be surrounded by people, mentors, family members, friends, and colleagues who have helped to pick me up after I have been dismantled, and I know for sure I would not be where I am today without them. My question now is how can we do this for all students; all human beings who just want to have a chance to have a feeling of belonging. Equity and access is not just about providing pathways and resources, but also about the recognition of who we are as a humanity and the experiences we all should be able to be a part of.”

Read Jared’s Story

From Budget to Brilliance: Building Strong Music Programs. 2026 NAfME Music Program Leaders Forum. January 29-30, 2026. Phoenix-Mesa, Arizona. Image of Delta Hotels Marriott.

Category

  • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA)

Resource Type

  • Blog / Article

Year Added

2024

Virtual Symposium on Music Education and Students with Disabilities and/or Living in Poverty. Saturday, November 15, 2025. A free, virtual event for music educators
From Budget to Brilliance: Building Strong Music Programs. 2026 NAfME Music Program Leaders Forum. January 29-30, 2026. Phoenix-Mesa, Arizona. Image of Delta Hotels Marriott. Logos for NAfME Council of Music Program Leaders and Arizona Annual State Music Education Conference theme Teaching with Passion, Leading with Purpose