Albemarle Superintendent Dr. Pamela Moran Named Administrator of the Year by State Music Education Association

(ALBEMARLE COUNTY, Virginia) – Albemarle County Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Pamela R. Moran, has received the 2016 Administrator of the Year Award from the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA). The Association is a statewide non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote the advancement of music education through schools and other educational institutions. The award was presented this week at VMEA’s annual conference.

Carrie Finnegan, who directs the orchestras at Albemarle High School and Jouett and Sutherland middle schools, called Dr. Moran “the teacher’s dream administrator.” Finnegan added, “She often opens our concerts with a speech about the importance of keeping music alive and thriving in our schools.”
In its criteria, VMEA said that it selects an administrator of the year based upon “documented evidence that the nominee has been a major factor towards the success of a music program.” It said examples of support include securing resources to ensure the strength and broad opportunities of program offerings as well as the advocacy and support of professional development for music educators.”

Dr. Moran often notes the importance of a well-rounded education, citing lifelong learning skills, such as creativity, collaboration, and analytical thinking, that are developed through music programs. She has expanded arts programming through such programs as a summer Fine Arts Academy and an Arts & Letters Pathway for high school students with a concentration on music study that includes working with local artists.

“Dr. Moran is an exceptional example of a superintendent who always maintains the highest expectations for students and teachers alike,” said Jennifer Morris, director of the Arts & Letters Pathway at Albemarle High School. “She invests herself in our programs. One does not have to go far to see her care and love of the arts in Albemarle County,” Morris added. The mission of VMEA is to provide leadership and professional development for music
educators throughout Virginia to foster quality music education. During a typical academic year, the association organizes and presents over 150 events in support of musical excellence in the Commonwealth. The association also provides a forum for educators to share best practices and teaching strategies.

“As a scholarship clarinet and oboe player, Dr. Moran knows a great deal about the energy, passion, patience, and attention to detail required to make beautiful music,” said Doug Granger, a lead coach in the school division for Fine Arts. “She uses that experience to make well-informed, goal-oriented decisions to provide high-quality music education to all students,” he added.