Each year KMEA nominates three outstanding music teachers from each of our six districts in the categories of elementary, middle school and high school. The six districts then nominate one Outstanding Music Educator from their District to be nominated for the State Award. The KMEA Executive Council thoroughly studies these six nominations and selects the most deserving candidate for Music Educator of the Year. This year's honoree is Vocal Music Teacher, Jane Vanderhoff from Garden City High School.

Jane has taught for 35 years, mostly in southwest Kansas. Lynn Unruh the Southwest KMEA President-elect from Cimarron High School stated that Jane has devoted her life to sharing her love of music with young people and helping them develop their musical abilities. She has touched countless lives and instilled in them the love of music. As a new teacher, Lynn knew that to be successful, she should surround herself with successful people and watch how they teach. She found the support, ideas and encouragement she needed from Jane who went out of her way to be friendly, kind, and approachable.

Garden City High School music teachers Summer Miller and Lyle Sobba, both speak very highly of Jane as an educator, colleague, and friend. She is the kind of Music Teacher all music teachers dream about. KMEA appreciates her dedication as a music educator and are proud to honor Jane Vanderhoff as the 2014 KMEA Music Educator of the Year!