CMA Foundation Honors WCS Music Teachers

Published May 10, 2018

Four Williamson County Schools music teachers have been named Music Teachers of Excellence by the Country Music Association (CMA) Foundation, an honor bestowed to only 34 teachers this year.

The Music Teachers of Excellence Award recognizes those teachers who have made a positive impact in their classrooms and schools as a result of the music they teach. The award was launched in 2016 after interviewing music teachers about the challenges in music education.

Heritage Middle’s Lisa Benton, Franklin High’s Jacob Campos, Nolensville High’s Benjamin Easley and Ravenwood High’s Lauren Ramey all received the award at a private dinner on May 8. Various country music artists, executives and advocates were also invited to the dinner to celebrate the achievements of the teachers.

In addition to the dinner, each winner received a $5,000 stipend, half for the teacher to use at his or her own discretion as far as classroom needs, and the remaining half given directly to the school to support the classroom.