“It was definitely a surprise, I didn’t even know it was going to happen,” she said.
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Buckley confessed she very nearly deleted an email from the Symphony announcing she was one of four finalists for the award and requesting time a judging panel could observe her work. Fortunately, Buckley noticed her principal’s name on it.
“It was an honor just to be nominated. It’s a very exciting time,” she said.
Symphony Education and Outreach Manager Nomi Marcus said the education committee received its largest number of nominations for the award this year, making choosing a very difficult task. Educators from Clark, Champaign and Greene Counties are eligible.
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“Valerie’s nomination packet immediately rose to the top of the group, as many of her current students spoke on her behalf, and this struck a chord with everyone on the committee,” Marcus said. “The level of passion she had for teaching and connecting with her students through music was very evident and inspiring. Valerie really is the total package. “
Buckley, an Ohio native, has taught in the Northeastern Local School District since 2008. She was told about the opening here by a college friend and knew it was a great fit right after interviewing.
She guides Kenton Ridge’s chamber singers, symphonic choir and women’s and men’s choirs, and the choirs at Northridge Middle School. There are more than 100 students in the middle school choirs alone.
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The groups have been successful at various local and state competitions, and performed at large venues.
Part of the success of her programs is the support of administration, colleagues and parents who think the arts are important.
She’s committed to help students be good at music, which gives them a chance to connect with each other in a way the classroom doesn’t always offer. Her strength is in relating to the kids.
“One of the things I like best is getting to see them grow from age 12 to 18. Students every year blossom, connecting like a family,” Buckley said. “I love to see the end as well as the beginning.”
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Buckley is excited for the district’s new facilities as these could lead to more opportunities for students interested in music.
She looks forward to the Symphony concert to share Springfield with her family and friends.
“I’m so flattered. Thanks to everyone who said nice things about me,” Buckley said.
For tickets or information about the Symphony concert, go to www.springfieldsym.org.
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