Whether you’re new to your school or you’ve been around for years, you’ll benefit from building relationships with other people with whom you’ll be working. Knowing and communicating with key people will make your job (and theirs) easier.

If you haven’t already, introduce yourself to the following people:

• Secretary – Key person for all school/office procedures
• Principal and Assistant Principals -- Support
• Custodian – Coordinate cleaning your room with after school rehearsals
• Athletic Director – Check league rules regarding music and work to avoid conflicts
• Transportation Director – How to request transportation and related details
• Music Booster Officers – What do they see as their function? How has that translated in the past?
• Other Music Teachers in Your Building or District – What suggestions do they have? How are the departments coordinated and how do they communicate?
• Private Teachers – Create a list with phone numbers
• Previous Band Director

MENC member Julie Sorcek adds that your local music companies and stores can also be great resources for recruiting, repairs, and rentals.

Good working relationships don’t happen by accident – being a team player just makes good sense..

--Becky Spray, August 26, 2009 ©MENC: The National Association for Music Education