Gracie Carrillo

I became a teacher because I saw music as a vehicle for transformation. I thrive on watching students grow from the first shy notes to confidence and moving performances. I am driven by the belief that every ensemble, every student, can absolutely achieve something extraordinary, including teaching all of us a new view to anything. I strengthen the stage where I do not just teach notes, but I also cultivate future leaders. Including pushing my very own boundaries alongside my community.

I inherited a long standing program that has gone through many changes. There was a lot of work to undertake and rebuild for the program, including a learning space. I've witnessed student mindsets transform. I had the opportunity to travel, create, and change the attitude by simply presenting the student a stage for their creative outlet. Now, students say they enjoy coming to school and take pride in being part of our music program. Seeing an attitude positively unfold has been unforgettable.

A small portion will go toward the music program to assist with purchasing needs for students toward their performance and learning. The rest will go towards my business plan to create opportunities to assist public schools in the county to develop young musicians for their music programs. My heart resonates with providing opportunities for students, and investing in my community unlocks doors for students in the performing arts.