Congratulations, Rene Schmidt -- Golden Apple Award winner!

Rene’ Schmidt, music teacher for 33 years, is the 2015 recipient of the META Golden Apple Excellence in Teaching Award. The award is given annually to a person who exemplifies excellence in teaching at Maine-Endwell, significantly influences the lives of students, and contributes to the success of his or her school.

Colleagues describe Mrs. Schmidt as dedicated, caring, patient and an invaluable member of the district. In order to save the beginners' orchestra program, Mrs. Schmidt and her fellow music teachers for the past two years took on additional classroom assignments. For Mrs. Schmidt, that meant teaching at three school buildings. As a result of her selfless dedication, the district continues to have a thriving instrumental program.  
To support all students’ love of music, Mrs. Schmidt has developed a music program for the district’s 8:1:1 program. “She believes that all students have his/her unique and beautiful abilities, and the job of a teacher is to keep trying until we unlock these hidden potentials,” said Lynne Musa, who presented Mrs. Schmidt with her award. “She does this with style and grace.”

As a life-long musician and learner, Mrs. Schmidt gives her time and talents to the Maine-Endwell community through service and performance. Under her direction, the orchestra and orchestra string quartet perform at concerts at Good Shepherd Village, Marian Apartments, Rotary dinners and at many other community events. Mrs. Schmidt also shares her professional expertise by serving as a member of various music organizations including the NYS School Music Association, the National Association for Music Education. Locally she is a member of the Basically Bach Orchestra, Musical Director/Pit Musician at the Cider Mill Playhouse, a member of the St. James Players, and a member of the Broome County String Teachers Orchestra.