When Kendall Baldwin was recently named superintendent of the Arlee Joint School District in Montana, it marked another milestone in a career dedicated to education and student success. While every educator’s journey is unique, her appointment serves as a powerful reminder that the leadership skills developed through music education can open doors far beyond the classroom.
Many people pursue a master’s degree in music education to become stronger teachers, refine their instructional practices, and deepen their musical expertise. Those are certainly valuable outcomes. But graduate education can also help prepare educators for broader leadership opportunities—whether that’s mentoring colleagues, leading a department, shaping curriculum, or serving in school and district administration.
Music educators are uniquely positioned to become educational leaders because they already manage many of the responsibilities leadership demands every day.
Music Educators Lead Every Day
Long before they pursue administrative positions, music educators develop leadership skills that extend well beyond teaching rehearsals and concerts.
Music teachers regularly:
- Lead classrooms and large student ensembles.
- Plan performances and manage complex event logistics.
- Coordinate budgets, equipment, and program resources.
- Collaborate with administrators, faculty, families, and community partners.
- Mentor students while building strong school culture.
- Balance creativity with organization, planning, and communication.
These experiences naturally cultivate many of the same skills needed for department chairs, curriculum leaders, principals, fine arts coordinators, and district administrators.
A Graduate Degree That Supports Professional Growth
Kent State University’s 100% online Master of Music in Music Education is designed for working music educators who want to continue growing professionally while maintaining their teaching careers.
Through advanced coursework, educators deepen their understanding of:
- Curriculum and instructional design
- Music education research
- Contemporary teaching practices
- Educational leadership and collaboration
- Critical thinking and reflective practice
Graduates not only strengthen their effectiveness in the classroom but also develop the confidence and expertise to pursue new leadership opportunities throughout their careers.
Leadership Looks Different for Every Educator
Not every music educator dreams of becoming a superintendent—and they don’t have to.
For many graduates, leadership may mean:
- Mentoring new teachers.
- Serving as a department chair.
- Leading curriculum initiatives.
- Coordinating district music programs.
- Presenting at conferences.
- Advocating for arts education.
- Taking on administrative or district-level leadership roles.
Whatever the destination, graduate education can help educators expand both their knowledge and their impact.
Investing in What’s Next
One of the greatest benefits of earning a master’s degree is that it prepares educators not only for the job they have today but also for the opportunities they may pursue tomorrow.
Whether your goal is to become a stronger classroom teacher, lead a music department, influence curriculum decisions, or eventually serve in district leadership, Kent State Online’s Master of Music in Music Education provides the flexibility and academic excellence to help you continue growing throughout your career.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Kent State’s 100% online Master of Music in Music Education is designed specifically for working educators, allowing you to earn your degree while continuing to teach.
