SAN DIEGO–The California Music Educators Association (CMEA) has chosen Kevin Beiser, San Diego Unified School District’s recently elected Board of Trustees President, as the 2013 CMEA Legislative Music Leadership awardee. Beiser had earlier received recognition from the San Diego chapter of the CMEA, which nominated him for the state-wide award.
“After receiving the local section award for supporting music, the CMEA board of directors unanimously decided to give Kevin Beiser our state-level Legislative award,” said CMEA President Russ Sperling. “For music to flourish in our schools, it’s critical to have supporters like Kevin on our school boards holding the line for music education. Kevin has been a strong voice advocating that all students have access to a quality education that includes music as an essential.”
Beiser fought to protect music funding amid the District’s budget crises and worked together with parents and teachers to help organize the community to protect as many of the varied music programs as possible. With his experience as part of school bands during even his earliest elementary school years as well as being a public school Math teacher, Beiser knows the important role music programs play in a well-rounded education.
“I’m honored that my commitment to keeping music programs in our district’s schools has been recognized by the CMEA, both locally and throughout the State,” Beiser said. “I proudly share this recognition with my fellow Board of Trustees. They voted to protect the funding for music programs as often as possible.”
Beiser received his award at the award ceremony held during the California All-State Music Education Conference (CASMEC) in Fresno, California on February 21st.
Beiser was elected to the San Diego Unified Board of Trustees in 2010 representing District B. Prior to his election his work with students earned him “San Diego Math Teacher of the Year” honors in 2008-2009. In December, 2013, Beiser was selected by his fellow Trustees to be the School District’s Board President.