2026 MMEA Fall In-Service Conference

Music education has the power to build meaningful connections beyond the classroom. This session explores how intergenerational and community-based music-making experiences can foster empathy, belonging, and stronger school-community relationships. We’ll explore real examples such as performances at independent and assisted living communities to collaborations with local schools and the creation of a community performing ensemble for students, family members, and staff. Attendees will learn about the educational and social benefits of these experiences and leave with practical, adaptable ideas for implementing similar initiatives in their own programs.

Who decides who has access to music education in the state of Maryland? There are a lot of answers to this question, ranging from your principal to the president of the State Board of Education. Join AEMS to explore the landscape of who has power and influence in Maryland's education ecosystem, including YOU! Learn more about current state policies and priorities and dive into our resources to support your advocacy journey.

No matter where or what you teach, you teach disabled students. We will define disability, learn how and why to presume compitence, and learn how to make the environment, materials, instruction, and communication truly accessible and inclusive for all students. You will actively use communition tools during the instruction, experience the effect of instuctional modifications, and get to try out adaptive materials to play instruments and interact with other participants. You will also have the opportunity to apply these strategies and tools to prepare for your classroom and your students.