(This article was written and released by Rossilynne Skena Culgan, Photo by Alex Jones. Please click here for the original article.)
DEANNA GRANDSTAFF (37)
Band Teacher and Music Department Head, Canon-McMillan School District
When a student tells Deanna Grandstaff that they want to join the band, she makes it happen — no matter the student’s financial need.
Last year, she secured a donation of $4,458 worth of instruments so students who cannot afford one can still play in the band. She also piloted a program that brought ukuleles into the hands of every third- and fourth-grader in her district.
“After so many years, I’ve seen the magic in children’s eyes when they’re part of something that’s bigger than themselves,” she says. “And that moment drives me.”
In recognition of her work, she’s a quarterfinalist for the 2023 Grammy Music Educator Award.