The University of Miami School of Education and Human Development (SEHD) celebrates the achievement of Jennifer Jimenez, who earned the 2026 Music Educator of the Year award at this year's GRAMMY Awards. Jimenez's recognition showcases the strength of SEHD's partnership with the Frost School of Music in preparing transformative music educators.
Jimenez graduated in 2003 through the collaborative music education program, earning her degree from Frost while completing her education minor through SEHD's Department of Teaching and Learning.
She now directs the magnet bands and chairs the Fine Arts Department at South Miami Senior High School, where she has taught for 19 years.
“And I don’t need to tell this group that music education is essential, it fosters critical social-emotional skills; it builds self-confidence and creativity, and it enhances student performance across academic subjects," Dr. Jennifer Krawec said, chair of the Department of Teaching and Learning, who spoke at the reception honoring Jimenez at UM's Kislak Center. " And so, the music teachers persist.”
SEHD will honor Jimenez at its upcoming graduate awards ceremony. Though she cannot attend, the school will recognize her achievement and present an award afterward.
Jimenez's students have performed at Carnegie Hall and two Super Bowls, including the 2020 halftime show. She regularly mentors current music education students as interns, extending the legacy of the SEHD-Frost partnership to the next generation of educators.
"Great teachers become great teachers because they have great teachers," Jimenez said when the Recording Academy announced her award.
