The Power of Classroom Citizenship: Building Culture Through Collaborative Learning
Clinic Synopsis:
Classroom culture is a defining factor in student engagement, trust, and excellence. This session explores how educators can cultivate a classroom environment where students feel valued, connected, and empowered to contribute. By emphasizing communication, collaboration, and shared leadership, educators can foster a space where students not only learn but also take ownership of their community.
Jonathan Glawe
- Biographical Information
Jonathan Glawe, originally from Waterloo, Iowa, serves as the Director of Orchestras and Performing Arts Chair at Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Kansas and a Master of Music Education degree from the University of Oregon. Prior to graduate study, he taught in the Darien Public Schools in Darien, Connecticut. Now in his 17th year at Pioneer High School, Glawe has played a vital role in elevating the music department to national prominence. Under his leadership, Pioneer was named a GRAMMY® Signature School Top 3 finalist in both 2010 and 2015, and earned the distinction of National GRAMMY® Signature School in 2011. In 2017, he conducted the Pioneer Symphony Orchestra at the Midwest Clinic, and in 2013, supported a conductorless chamber orchestra that won top honors at the National Orchestra Festival. Glawe’s teaching emphasizes both artistic excellence and curricular innovation. While rooted in classical tradition, his orchestra program champions the works of underrepresented composers and expands the stylistic palette—fostering a more inclusive and holistic musical experience for students. His dedication to music education has earned numerous accolades:
MSBOA District 12 Orchestra Director of the Year (2011, 2013, 2015); Finalist for Michigan Orchestra Director of the Year (2012); Michigan String Teacher of the Year, American String Teachers Association (2021); Elizabeth A.H. Green Educator Award, American String Teachers Association (2024). Beyond his work at Pioneer, Glawe is a national advocate for music education. He serves on the board of the Servant Leadership Association for Music (SLAM), founded in 2021, and is a clinician for the Conn-Selmer Music Education Division. Jonathan Glawe lives in Ann Arbor with his wife, Dr. Rebecca Hunter, and their three spirited children: Amara, Avery, and Adalynn.
Amanda Zall - Biographical Information
Amanda Zall, originally from Wakefield, Massachusetts, serves as the Orchestra Director for Monroe Middle School in Wheaton, Illinois. She holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Syracuse University, a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Michigan, and an endorsement in Non-Profit Governance through the Business+Impact Fellowship at the Ross School of Business, also from the University of Michigan. She has experience as both an orchestra and band teacher, having spent three years at Downers Grove North and South High Schools as the Director of Orchestras and Assistant Band Director prior to her graduate studies. During graduate school, Zall developed and led a qualitative study investigating the impact of co-constructive learning styles in music education. Inspired by her teaching experiences in high school, she sought to answer a recurring question: “What have I done to get my students to invest in their experience, and how do I continue this work?” This inquiry led her to the University of Michigan, where she conducted her research in partnership with the Marsal School of Education, the School of Music, Theater & Dance, and Mr. Jonathan Glawe at Pioneer High School. After graduating, Zall was selected as the Orchestra Director at Monroe Middle School. She is deeply grateful to her school, colleagues, and students for welcoming her into their fine arts family and for allowing her to be part of their musical journeys. Outside of Monroe, Zall is an active member of several organizations that advocate for the advancement and support of music education. She is a member of the Servant Leadership Association for Music, a board member of the Detroit Women's Chorus as a Business+Impact Fellow, and an alumna of both Tau Beta Sigma and Sigma Alpha Iota. Amanda Zall lives in Wheaton with her partner, Mr. Sam Tamburo-Jamrozik, their two cats, Dandelion and Oswald, and their dog, Goose.
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