Brevard Schools’ String Specialist Named Florida Secondary Music Educator of the Year
Laura Penfield, String Specialist with Brevard Public Schools (BPS), was recently named the Florida Music Education Association (FMEA) Secondary Music Educator of the Year. A member of the Brevard Symphony Orchestra since 1988, Ms. Penfield has also taught at more than 30 BPS schools throughout her 32-year career with the district.
“I am very honored to receive the 2021 Secondary Music Teacher of the Year Award from the Florida Music Education Association! BPS is a rich environment in which I have had the good fortune to develop my practice with creativity and freedom, while having abundant opportunities to learn from others through professional development,” said Ms. Penfield.
West Shore Jr. Sr. High School’s Principal, Rick Fleming, commented on Ms. Penfield’s passion and dedication for her students, “Her work is not simply a job - it is a way of life. Her compassion for kids is only rivaled by her extensive knowledge base. The patience and scaffolding she establishes within her classroom shows a deliberate commitment to growing confidence within her students. She is a true leader of learning, and her inspiration spreads throughout our entire school community.”
Ms. Penfield’s passion for her craft has empowered students to become All-County and All-State performers, as well as music teachers and professional musicians. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Violin Performance from the University of South Florida, and a Master’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Central Florida. Currently, Ms. Penfield provides in-person and virtual instruction to students at: West Shore Jr. Sr. High School, Johnson Middle School, and Creel, Croton, Harbor City, Roy Allen, Sabal and Sherwood Elementary Schools.
The Florida Music Education Association is a not-for-profit professional education association that serves and supports music education across Florida. FMEA publishes music education research, organizes professional development programs, and broadens teachers’ knowledge and interest in their profession through affiliation with colleagues.