About the Award
Since 1994, the Young Patronesses of the Opera has proudly recognized and awarded excellence in music teachers in Miami-Dade County. Each year we nominate an outstanding elementary or middle school teacher from a public, private, or parochial school who creatively motivates and inspires young children in the field of music education. The winner is awarded a $2,000 cash award and a crystal award at YPO’s annual May luncheon.
In 1993, Karyn Herterich, initiated the Educator of Note Award in memory of her mother, Ethel Malcomb Kennedy, as well as to honor YPO Past President Louise Todaro for her many years of dedication to the cause of opera education.
Eligibility:
• Minimum 3 years teaching experience
• Teacher in a Miami-Dade County elementary or middle school
• Nomination from one person (principal, fellow teacher, etc.)
Educator of Note Winners
2023/ Stanley Hoch
2022/ Kristin L. English
2021 / Cynthia Kohanek
2020 / Jessica Urbanik
2019 / Dr. Joy Galliford
2018 / Vivian Ventura
2017 / Caroline Biggs
2016 / Kristy Pagan
2015 / Lynette Davis
2014 / Aliza Seba
2013 / Odalys Valdes-Caous
2012 / Maria Murawka
2011 / Monica Harmon
2010 / Atala Mendiola
2009 / Dr. Yasmin Alvarez
2008 / Abigail Rubin
2007 / Mary Alice Kays
2006 / Maggie Palmer
2005 / Madga Cruz Louriero
2004 / Antonia Puhn
2003 / Silvia Constantinidis
2002 / Jennifer McLean Stadelmeyer
2001 / Dr. Katherine Driscol
2000 / Jacqueline E. Moody
1999 / Leslie Cooper
1998 / Timothy Sharp
1997 / Dr. Janet Duguay Kirsten
1996 / Sheila Firestone
1995 / Diane Mauch
1994 / Lillian Naruns