What does it take to build a thriving band program where every student feels they belong? For Jennifer Jimenez, 2026 Grammy Music Educator Award recipient and Director of Bands at South Miami Senior High School, it starts with intentional leadership, access, and community.
In this episode, Jennifer shares how she has spent 19 years building a music program that serves students from diverse backgrounds and creates opportunities for students who might otherwise never have access to music education.
We discuss:
* Expanding access to music education: Why Jennifer created a beginning band class for high school students with no prior experience.
* Building a culture of belonging: Mentorship, student leadership, shared responsibility, and creating a band family where everyone has a place.
* Community partnerships: How fundraising and partnerships with local arts organizations help provide instruments, camps, performances, and experiences for students.
* Intentional program culture: Establishing expectations, empowering student leaders, and building systems that help a program thrive.
* Representation and mentorship: Jennifer’s research on underrepresented populations in music education and why students and teachers need to see what’s possible.
* Sustainable teaching: Finding work-life balance, avoiding comparison, and growing the program you have rather than wishing for someone else’s resources.
Jennifer also shares advice for young band directors: You are not alone, don't be afraid to ask for help, and give yourself permission to be the teacher you are—not someone else.
This is an inspiring conversation about music education, student leadership, equity, and the impact of making sure every student has the opportunity to belong.
Watch the Episode
Go Deeper
Join the Common Time Collective
The private community for music educators who take their craft seriously. Monthly deep-dive sessions, exclusive resources, and a direct line to the conversations happening on this show.
Join the Collective