AOSA SCHOLARSHIPS
The board selects recipients for AOSA membership scholarships on a regular basis. AOSA membership provides teachers with amazing resources and professional development specifically for music teachers, even if you can't attend a national conference. Preference is given to first time members, but all are encouraged to apply. 2025 Scholarship Application now available. Due April 30th, 2025
Here's what our Board Members have to say about AOSA membership.
Board Member at Large:
Teri Wallis
My membership with AOSA has been a blessing over my 30 years of teaching music. Through AOSA, I was awarded a scholarship to attend my first year of Orff training. The training would not have been possible without the scholarship. It began my road to quality teaching to the students.
I was also awarded a grant of $500.00 for instruments (also through AOSA). I was in one school district when that was given to me, I then notified AOSA that I was moving schools the next year, they informed me the grant money could be transferred to the new school I was going to. The access to the many lessons and classes are numerous when searching for ideas in your classroom and the many friends made in our line of teaching is very valuable.
I was also awarded a grant of $500.00 for instruments (also through AOSA). I was in one school district when that was given to me, I then notified AOSA that I was moving schools the next year, they informed me the grant money could be transferred to the new school I was going to. The access to the many lessons and classes are numerous when searching for ideas in your classroom and the many friends made in our line of teaching is very valuable.
Board Member at Large:
Shirley Van Paepeghem
I first joined AOSA when I was in my first year of teaching 38 years ago. I have never looked back. It opened up a world of friendships, colleagues, mentors, inspiration, and love which is what I needed to sustain a lifetime of teaching. While attending PD workshops, we laughed, cried and learned together. Distance has not been a barrier in maintaining these relationships. We test each other's songs and poems and lessons. We share workshops and clinics. We ask for advice for our challenges and celebrate one another’s accomplishments. I cherish these relationships.
My best inspiration has come from the organization and I will always remain grateful for the support I have received. Locally my chapter has provided not just educational support but leadership opportunities which improved my teaching more than I could have ever imagined.
Why join AOSA? Why wouldn't you?
My best inspiration has come from the organization and I will always remain grateful for the support I have received. Locally my chapter has provided not just educational support but leadership opportunities which improved my teaching more than I could have ever imagined.
Why join AOSA? Why wouldn't you?
2025 Velma Allen Scholarship Recipient
Shawn Lopez
I want to personally say thank you for selecting me to be the recipient of the 2025 Velma Allen
Scholarship. I am currently in my 11th year of teaching elementary music in the Treasure Valley.
As I continue my academic journey, I am focused on developing the knowledge and skills
needed to become an effective and inspiring music teacher. My career goal is to create
meaningful musical experiences for students, helping them grow not only as musicians but also
as creative, confident individuals. I believe that joining a national organization such as the
American Orff-Schulwerk Association (AOSA) provides invaluable opportunities for professional
growth. Having access to high-quality resources, professional development, and a supportive
community of educators, AOSA membership will help me stay connected, inspired, and
prepared to bring engaging, student-centered music education into my classroom.
Scholarship. I am currently in my 11th year of teaching elementary music in the Treasure Valley.
As I continue my academic journey, I am focused on developing the knowledge and skills
needed to become an effective and inspiring music teacher. My career goal is to create
meaningful musical experiences for students, helping them grow not only as musicians but also
as creative, confident individuals. I believe that joining a national organization such as the
American Orff-Schulwerk Association (AOSA) provides invaluable opportunities for professional
growth. Having access to high-quality resources, professional development, and a supportive
community of educators, AOSA membership will help me stay connected, inspired, and
prepared to bring engaging, student-centered music education into my classroom.
