Two music educators were selected as the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s 2026 Music Educator of the Year Award winners, announced at the April 18, 2026 Family Concert.
Fort Wayne Philharmonic news release:
Two Winners Selected For Philharmonic’s 2026 Music Educator Of The Year Award
Fort Wayne, Indiana (April 23, 2026) — Two music educators were selected as the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s 2026 Music Educator of the Year Award winners at the April 18th Family Concert, “Octavia and the Cats of Rome: The Music of Italy.” Shambaugh Elementary School’s Bobbi Jo Carroll of Fort Wayne Community Schools won the primary division award. She has taught in both special education and music education during her 23 years of teaching. Carroll was described in this way: “Ms. Carroll uses music to help our students become the very best individuals that they can be while still accepting them for who they are” and “Ms. Carroll has a love and passion for music that is contagious. She also has a genuine love and care for the students she teaches.”
Central Noble Junior Senior High School’s Nathan Spellman of Central Noble Community Schools won the secondary division. He has taught instrumental music for 10 years and has been the Director of Bands at Central Noble Junior Senior High School since 2023. Spellman was described in this way: “Mr. Spellman brings a rare characteristic of being able to teach a broad range of students, from beginners to more advanced, while earning a student’s respect and allowing for that mentorship to happen naturally” and “From day one, Mr. Spellman brought energy, vision, and a deep commitment to students that immediately elevated our music program.”
Both winners receive a $500 cash prize, $200 for their school music program, a commemorative trophy and banner, along with two series subscriptions of their choosing to the 2026-2027 Fort Wayne Philharmonic season.
All nominees were honored at a reception following the April 18th Family Concert. The Philharmonic’s Music Educator of the Year Awards occur each spring. Be on the lookout for next season’s announcement so you can nominate a deserving music educator you know!
About the Fort Wayne Philharmonic
Now in its 82nd season, the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s mission is to foster and instill a lifelong love of music across the orchestral spectrum through live performances and educational experiences. Music Director Andrew Constantine leads the Fort Wayne Philharmonic alongside President and CEO Brittany Hall. Through their leadership and support of the Board of
Directors, musicians, and staff, the Fort Wayne Philharmonic strives to be one of the most vibrant and financially healthy orchestras in the country and a cornerstone of the regional community. Its programs are characterized by excellence and innovation in a variety of styles, media, and venues, and create inspiring and engaging experiences for all audiences. The Fort Wayne Philharmonic is a funded member of the Arts United of Greater Fort Wayne, the Indiana Arts Commission, and the National Endowment for the Arts. For additional information, call 260.740.3975.
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