Happy 2014!!! As we start a new year, that means that KMEA is just around the corner. I have been counting down the days for quite a while. Hopefully Mother Nature will be a little more cooperative this year. I, for one, really missed getting to recharge my batteries last year. I always come home with many new ideas and new techniques (or just some old ones that I forgot). Dr. Bernstorf and I are excited to announce that there will be three clinics dealing specifically with special needs students in the music classroom at this year's convention.

Scott Iseminger will be presenting back-to-back sessions on Friday afternoon on Special Learners in the Music Classroom. Come to Walnut 208 at 2:45 for two hours of tips and strategies for working with special learners in your classroom. In the morning, I will have session on incorporating special learners in the instrumental classroom and ensembles. Come to 207 Osage at 10:00 to hear about my experiences with special needs in the band classroom.

Working with special needs students can be rewarding as well as frustrating at times. Sometimes it requires some extra resources and thinking outside of the box. Dr. Bernstorf and I are just an email away if you need suggestions or ideas. We will be more than happy to do what we can to help you out. We are also more than willing to come and provide an in-service or even visit your classrooms; all you have to do is ask! Even better, let us know what you are doing in your classrooms. We know many of you are already doing great things and we would love to talk to you!