Jennifer Kercher
Step Up Your Game: Revitalize the COMMUNITY in Your Classroom
Wednesday, March 4th 3pm
Session Description
In this dynamic and engaging session, you’ll discover powerful strategies for revitalizing the sense of community in your choral classroom. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to teaching, this session is designed to help you foster an environment where students feel connected, valued, and excited to participate.
You’ll learn how to build stronger relationships with your students and create a collaborative atmosphere that encourages both individual and group growth. In this interactive session, we’ll explore methods for developing inclusive and interactive classroom activities that promote teamwork, mutual respect, and creativity. You’ll also gain insights into effective classroom management strategies that keep students engaged and motivated.
Our experience has shown us that building community leads to greater intrinsic motivation and musical success. By focusing on creating a positive, supportive environment, you’ll help students develop not only as musicians, but also as individuals who feel connected to one another and to the music they create together. This session will leave you with practical tools and fresh perspectives to take your choirs to the next level.
Clinician Bio
Jennifer Kercher is the Choir Director at Walker Middle School, located in the Salem-Keizer School District. Prior to teaching at Walker, her 22-year career has seen her at Crossler Middle School, Silverton High School, Mark Twain Middle School, and North Salem High School. Jennifer serves as the OMEA D4 Choral Chair and the Oregon ACDA Middle School R&R Co-Chair. She was the 2023 recipient of the OMEA Outstanding Middle School Music Educator. A Silverton native, Jennifer completed her undergraduate work at Western Oregon University and her graduate work at George Fox University. Jennifer shares her love of music and performing with her supportive husband, Jedidiah, and two amazing children, Elijah and Liliana.