In the season two premiere, West Virginia Music EducatorsAssociation Advocacy Chair Genesis Tomalko joins host Jazzmone Sutton for an inspiring conversation about stepping into advocacy leadership as a young musiceducator.

From discovering her passion for music education toembracing advocacy early in her career, Genesis shares how mentorship, storytelling, and transformative Hill Day experiences shaped her leadership journey. She reflects on finding the confidence to claim her seat at the table, helping expand advocacy efforts across West Virginia, and why new leaders don’t have to have all of the answers to make a lasting impact.

Join the 2024 Georgia Teacher of the Year, Christy Todd, and host Jazzmone Sutton as they discuss how to expand community engagement to meet the needs and goals of the students that we serve.

Episode Resources:

Story Arts

Hall Pass Entertainment

Share your thoughts on this episode by leaving a comment below, in the NAfME Amplify or send Jazzmone an email at advocacy@nafme.org.

© 2023 National Association for Music Education

Join Amanda Karhuse, NAfME Assistant Executive Director for Advocacy and Public Policy; Zachary Keita, NAfME Advocacy and Public Policy Communications Manager; and podcast host Jazzmone Sutton, NAfME State Advocacy Engagement Manager, as they provide an update on federal education legislation and appropriations.

Show Notes:

Support Federal Funding Campaign- Add your voice to the national call to support federal funding for programs impacting music education

Federal Funds Survey Results

Letter to support Non Defense Funding

*Music provided by Skilsel. © 2023 National Association for Music Education