The Alamance-Burlington School System is proud to announce that Aria Westbrook, Chorus Teacher at Hawfields Middle School, has been named the North Carolina Music Educators Association (NCMEA) Middle School Choral Teacher of the Year. Westbrook was presented with this prestigious award at the NCMEA Conference on Sunday.
This recognition is one of the highest honors bestowed by NCMEA. Westbrook's selection highlights her unwavering dedication, joyful artistry, and deep belief in the power of young voices.
Two Decades of Excellence at Hawfields
A graduate of Elon University with a degree in Music Education and a Master's Degree in Music Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Westbrook is also a Teaching Fellow. She has devoted two decades of her career to Hawfields Middle School, where she directs choirs while teaching General Music and Teen Leadership classes.
Westbrook has distinguished herself as an innovator in education, becoming the first ABSS teacher to implement the Capturing Kids Hearts Teen Leadership Curriculum. Her peers describe her as both an innovator and a collaborator, consistently seeking new ways to inspire and connect with students through music.
A Story of Gratitude
During her recognition ceremony, Westbrook shared heartfelt gratitude for those who shaped her musical journey. She credited her mother as the giver of her "core music memory," along with her piano teacher, Ms. Diana Thomas, who nurtured her early love of music. She also honored her cooperating teacher turned lifelong mentor and friend, Joy Rust, whose guidance has been invaluable throughout her career.
Westbrook celebrated her Hawfields music partner of 19 years, Jennifer Payne, Band Director at Hawfields Middle School. Payne has been by Westbrook's side for every performance, every rehearsal, and every bit of musical chaos, exemplifying the collaborative spirit that makes Hawfields' music program exceptional.
Finally, she credits all of those in NCMEA who has influenced her life. "The company of music educators and makers make my soul sing."
