Name 
Juan Eckard
School & School System Where You Work
Carver High School, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools
Number of Years Teaching
25
Teaching Area(s)
Chorus, Band
Grade Level
High School
What do you love most about teaching music?
I love the journey of learning new music, seeing the students finally get it and feel accomplished.
Who inspired you to be a music educator and how did they inspire you?
My High School director Mr. Marvin Davenport. Just being in class and learning music theory at the same time was great. One day in class I saw him jump from one instrument to the next and was amazed.
What did you need the most when you started teaching?
I was in a good situation with a lot of good kids so I didn’t need much at first. I would probably say having a better understanding of how All County operates.
Describe the biggest challenge to teaching music education and how you have worked to overcome this challenge?
My biggest challenge is getting students who have had experience coming to High School. Often times we have beginners with Intermediate and advanced which makes the job a lot harder but it pays off when the music comes together.
How do you advocate for your program?
I advocate through performances, creating positive moments for the school and the band also using social media to show.
What is one piece of advice you would give to beginning teachers?
Don’t get discouraged, set your goal(s) and make it happen.
How do you build relationships with students and parents?
Band spends a lot of time together so we have regular conversations and meetings with parents help us understand each other.