Name 
Samantha Best
School & School System Where You Work
James Kenan High School, Duplin County Schools
Number of Years Teaching
6
Teaching Area(s)
Band
Grade Level
High School
What do you love most about teaching music?
I love how music has the power to connect students from diverse backgrounds. In my program, I have football players, AP students, and some who are just barely passing their classes, yet music creates a space where they can all come together and connect. One of my quietest students blossomed into an outspoken individual who isn’t afraid to stand up for themselves or for what is right—this transformation happened after they took on a leadership role within the band.
Who inspired you to be a music educator and how did they inspire you?
Devin Reid. He is the most understanding and welcoming teacher I’ve ever met. During high school, I was going through a difficult time at home and spent most of my free time in the band room practicing. He never turned me away, and for that, I am truly grateful. He didn’t know what I was going through, and that just shows what an amazing person he is.
What did you need the most when you started teaching?
I needed a mentor—someone I could turn to for guidance, to answer my questions, and to help me navigate the administrative side of the band world. Fortunately, I have since found a group of directors who have helped me with these things.
Describe the biggest challenge to teaching music education and how you have worked to overcome this challenge?
The biggest challenge I have faced is funding. I teach at a Title I school, and many of my students cannot afford to buy or even rent an instrument. To address this, I have worked with our school improvement team to acquire instruments, but there is always an ongoing need for repairs, sheet music, and supplies. We are blessed with support from our county and community, but unfortunately, prices are ever-increasing, and it is difficult to balance all the needs.
How do you advocate for your program?
I ensure that our band is a visible and integral part of both the school and the community. By consistently showcasing our strengths and successes through concerts, attending district events, and participating in honor bands, we demonstrate the value of our program. This past school year, our program was featured as a “Bright Spot” for our school, highlighting how much our administration values what we do.
What is one piece of advice you would give to beginning teachers?
Don’t isolate yourself. This job can feel lonely if you let it. Make an effort to connect with other teachers in your school, as well as with directors in your county and district. I struggled my first year by trying to do it all myself, and it was a hard lesson to learn. Now, I have built strong relationships with other directors in my county, and I feel that has made me a more successful teacher.
How do you build relationships with students and parents?
I maintain regular communication with parents through emails and letters, keeping them updated on the achievements and activities of our band. With students, I make it a priority to learn about their interests beyond music—and to remember them. It’s important that they feel valued both as individuals and as members of the band.