KATY STEKLAC

2167 Glencoe Hills Drive, Apt. 1B, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108 kgsteklac@gmail.com (734) 255-9653

March 9th, 2017

Julie Helber, Ed.D.

Superintendent, Chelsea School District
500 Washington Street
Chelsea, MI 48118

Dear Dr. Helber,

I am writing to express my interest in the band director position for Beach Middle School that has recently been
posted. I learned of the position through Jim Otto and Rick Catherman, my former band directors. The opportunity to
work in a vibrant district of which Im a proud alumna would be an honor and a highlight of my professional career.

As a young and enthusiastic music educator, my past experience highlights my qualifications:

Collaboration: In the past two years, I have worked closely with my local music colleagues to plan a regional
Solo and Ensemble Festival in which over 200 students from 12 schools performed music for qualified
adjudicators and received actionable feedback.
Diverse Perspective: Utilizing my international teaching experiences in China, Ghana, Greece and Costa Rica,
in addition to experience working with a racially and religiously diverse school community at South Canton
Scholars Charter Academy gives me a unique teaching perspective.
Developing Musical Leaders: My bands at South Canton Scholars Charter Academy have developed a rich
musical tradition during my tenure, receiving accolades after their performances at Michigan Music
Education Association Band Clinics and the National Heritage Academies Principals Meeting. In addition, in
2014, nearly three weeks after the current band director took unplanned medical leave, I led the bands of
Grosse Pointe South High School and Pierce Middle School, schools with music programs similar in caliber to
Chelseas, to MSBOA District 16s band festival, where they earned Excellent and Superior ratings.
Technology Specialist: In my band classroom, we frequently use Google Classroom to submit video playing
tests, facilitate group discussions, foster group morale, and have an open dialogue about growth mindset. I
plan to use this with my future students as I have found it is an effective tool to guide differentiated instruction.
Lifelong Learner: As a teacher, I feel that my work as a student is never done, and I take advantage of
attending multiple professional development events every year in order to teach my students with the best
practices.

I will honor the rich tradition of the Chelsea Band Program while also utilizing innovative music education techniques.
Doing so will allow me to help each young Beach Middle School musician achieve their educational goals as well
help develop their thinking and problem solving skills. It would be an honor to work alongside the Chelsea School
District team, a group of like-minded educators who are as dedicated to student achievement as I am. Please do not
hesitate to contact me if you have any additional questions. Thank you for your consideration.

Best,

Katy Steklac