Two APS Teachers Named CMA Music Teachers of Excellence

The Country Music Association Foundation has named two of APS’ own Music Teachers of Excellence: Brianne Turgeon from Springdale Park Elementary School and Ashleigh Spatz from Burgess-Peterson Academy.

“I’m so proud of Brianne and Ashleigh,” said Dr. Sara Womack, APS Fine and Performing Arts Coordinator. “They serve on our Arts Resource Team and are leaders for teachers across the District. Brianne builds a culture of learning by creating a joyful and engaging learning environment. Her musicianship is evident at all times. Ashleigh teaches expertly planned lessons and instills SEL skills in every class. She leads students to take charge of their learning. They are true music teachers of excellence!”

L-R: Sara Womack,
Brianne Turgeon and Principal Terry Harness.
While at a field trip at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Brianne Turgeon was surprised to learn that she had been named a
CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence.
Principal David White surprising Ashleigh Spatz with a CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence award.
Ashleigh Spatz with her third-grade class.
Principal David White surprises Ashleigh Spatz with a CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence award.

Spatz was surprised with the news while teaching third grade, and Turgeon was surprised while on a K-2 field trip to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. They both will receive $5,000 ($2,500 for their classrooms and $2,500 in unrestricted funds). They will also receive an all-expense paid trip to the invitation-only Music Teachers of Excellence Awards – hosted by country music superstar Dierks Bentley in Nashville in April.

CMA Foundation launched Music Teachers of Excellence in 2016 to celebrate, honor and invest in music teachers who exemplify excellence in the field. These change agents go above and beyond their role and responsibilities in the classroom and are vital to their students and communities.