PHILADELPHIA, PA — Three School District of Philadelphia music teachers have been selected as quarterfinalists for the 2022 Music Educator Award, a special award that will be presented by the Recording Academy and the GRAMMY Museum during GRAMMY Week 2022.

The District staff, who are among the 219 music teachers from 204 cities in the U.S., are South Philadelphia High School’s Courtney Powers, John Bartram High School’s Andrew Challman and Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush’s Suzanne Spencer. The quarterfinalists were recognized for making significant and lasting contributions to the field of music education and demonstrating a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in the schools.

“Providing students with access to high-quality music education can positively impact students’ academic performance and increase student engagement. We cannot provide a vibrant music program without dedicated educators who find new and innovative ways to engage students,” said Malika Savoy-Brooks, Ed.D., Chief Academic Supports Officer for the School District of Philadelphia. “We are extremely proud to celebrate educators who go above and beyond for their students to provide them with great educational experiences. This is a huge honor for our educators, and we are very proud of the work that they’ve done for our music program.”

One recipient will be selected from 10 finalists and recognized for their remarkable impact on students’ lives. The winner will be flown to Los Angeles to attend the 64th Annual GRAMMY Awards® and participate in several GRAMMY Week events. The nine additional finalists will receive a $1,000 award and schools of all 10 finalists will receive matching grants.

The matching grants provided to the schools are made possible by the Ford Motor Company Fund, a supporter of the GRAMMY Museum’s education programming. Additional supporters include the American Choral Directors Association, National Association for Music Education, The NAMM Foundation, and the National Education Association support this program through outreach to their constituencies.

The School District of Philadelphia was just honored for the third year in a row with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation. The District has more than 220 music educators and more than 50 music community partners. The School District of Philadelphia offers all students opportunities to learn instrumental music and all middle school and high school students opportunities to participate in All City Choir, Band, Orchestra and Jazz Band. Students also receive instruction and exposure to the music industry and careers, including recording, production, songwriting, DJing and modern band.