Names in the News

Valerie Vinnard and the Chavez and Webster Elementary Choirs recently received a Music for All Advocacy in Action award. The Advocacy in Action helps recognize and celebrate educators' effective practices that support music education in schools.

The recipients of this award are prominently featured in Music for All’s Advocacy in Action archive, showcasing their innovative ideas for music teachers nationwide to adopt. Their effective practices have made a significant impact on advancing music education, serving as a powerful model for others to follow.

Photo courtesy from Advocacy in Action.

Vinnard was lauded with the recognition for taking initiative in her Long Beach community and for creating a Musical Partnership with the Mayor’s Office. As a result, her fourth and fifth-grade students were able to perform holiday songs for city hall officials, receiving a standing ovation and pins from the Long Beach mayor, Rex Richardson. Through her leadership, students were able to access arts experiences, one of Long Beach Unified’s System Portrait values.

“Our advocacy initiative was effective for both our students and elected officials in the city of Long Beach. Our students had the opportunity to perform outside of the school and give back to the community through song.” Vinnard proudly states. “We made our school, district, and local community proud!”

Congratulations to Vinnard and the Chavez and Webster Elementary Choirs.