FOUR SDUSD STAFF RECOGNIZED FOR MUSIC EDUCATION CONTRIBUTIONS
Each year, the California Music Educators Association’s (CMEA) Southern Border Section recognizes Imperial Valley and San Diego County music educators, industry leaders, and school administrators for exceptional work in music education. These “Fortissimo” award winners for the 2020-2021 school year included three music educators and one school principal from San Diego Unified.
The Fortissimo Awards are selected through an open nomination process, followed by a selection process from the CMEA-SBS Executive Board. Awardees at the regional level may also be eligible for the state version of the award next year.
Carissa Mattison, who teaches band/orchestra at Point Loma High School, received the Byron Hoyt-Don Schmeer Band Educator Award.
Christian Tordahl received the Elementary Music Specialist Award. Christian teaches in VAPA’s elementary music program, providing band instruction to grades 4 and 5 at several schools.
Laura Schiavo, orchestra teacher at CPMA Middle School, received the Middle School Specialist Award.
Reashon L. Villery, principal at Oak Park Elementary School, received the Outstanding Administrator Award. This award honors a school administrator who has contributed powerfully to the support of music education.