THE CMA FOUNDATION logo

Music Teachers of Excellence

THE CMA FOUNDATION

Funding Amount

$5,000 per teacher

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Music Teachers of Excellence

Organization: CMA Foundation (philanthropic arm of the Country Music Association)

Geographic Scope: United States

Program Overview:
The Music Teachers of Excellence program recognizes and supports exceptional music educators across the country who are making a significant impact on their students and school communities through music education.

Award Amount: $5,000 per recipient

  • $2,500 designated for the teacher's music program and classroom needs

  • $2,500 designated for professional development and personal expenses
  • Eligibility:

  • Music educators in U.S. public schools, after school programs, and community organizations

  • Teachers demonstrated commitment to bringing high-quality music education to students

  • Selection based on dedication, impact on school community through music, teaching excellence
  • Selection Criteria:

  • Extensive application process includes:

  • - Teaching videos
    - Professional references
    - Community service work
    - Dedication to high-quality music education
    - Impact on school community

    Program History:

  • Established in 2011 as part of CMA Foundation's core mission

  • Now in its 10+ year of operation

  • Recognizes approximately 30 teachers annually

  • To date, CMA Foundation has invested nearly $850,000+ in Music Teachers of Excellence recipients

  • Total foundation investment nationally exceeds $30 million
  • Contact Information:

  • Website: cmafoundation.org

  • Executive Director: Tiffany Kerns
  • How to Apply

    Application Process

    Required Materials:
    1. Teaching videos
    2. Professional references
    3. Community service documentation
    4. Demonstration of:
    - Dedication to bringing high-quality music education to students
    - Impact on school community through music
    - Teaching excellence and commitment

    Selection Timeline:

  • Applications accepted on rolling basis

  • Recipients announced in May (typically during Teacher Appreciation Week)

  • Awards ceremony held in September/October in Nashville
  • Additional Support:

  • "Sponsor A Teacher" campaign allows individuals and organizations to directly support honorees

  • Recipients invited to awards ceremony in Nashville

  • Professional development opportunities provided
  • Application Details:
    For complete application details, visit the Application Details page at cmafoundation.org

    Focus Areas & Funding Uses

    Fields of Work

    music-educationteachers

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