Camas High music teacher honored at CMA Foundation ceremony

Camas High School music teacher Ethan Chessin was honored at the CMA Foundation’s Music Teachers of Excellence award ceremony on Sept. 10 at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville, Tenn.

The event recognized 30 educators, including Chessin, from across the United States for using music to inspire students, build confidence, and strengthen communities, according to the Camas School District.

“Music Teachers of Excellence is about shining a light on educators who are transforming the lives of their students every single day,” CMA Foundation Executive Director Tiffany Kerns said in a news release. “These teachers are leaders, mentors, and changemakers, and they deserve to feel seen and uplifted by our music community. This program isn’t just a moment of recognition; it’s a way for our industry to stand behind them and say, ‘We’re with you.’ ”

Each honoree received a $5,000 award, split evenly between personal use and their classroom or program and were invited to participate in a year of professional development and engagement with CMA’s broader network, including special access to CMA Fest and the CMA Awards.