Music programs get most of their notoriety from the success of their musicians, but any great music program has a backbone of teaching and support that makes it truly special. Anne Arundel County Public Schools is no exception, and three AACPS educators are being recognized on the state level for their efforts.
Severn Run High School Principal Rachel Kennelly and Broadneck Elementary School Principal Jamie Miller have each earned Outstanding School Administrator awards from the Maryland Music Educators Association for their support of their school’s music programs. The organization has also bestowed its James and Rosemary Walters Award for Service to Paul Dembowski of the Apex Arts program.
Kennelly is the first principal of Severn Run High School, which opened last year. She previously served as principal and assistant principal at Broadneck High School and began her career as a dance teacher at Old Mill High School in Millersville. She is a passionate advocate for arts education in all forms because of her strong belief that it plays a critical role in student achievement, engagement, and positive school culture.
Miller has served as principal at Broadneck Elementary School since 2022 and also has been principal at Solley Elementary School. A 20-year education veteran who is also a performer and choreographer herself, Miller is an enthusiastic supporter of Broadneck’s award-winning music program, which now features more than 200 students.
Dembowski is the business manager at Studio 39 for the Apex Arts magnet program. Outside of AACPS, he has served in a variety of leadership and logistical roles with MMEA and serves as director of the Anne Arundel Community College Concert Band and the Benfield Brass Band. He has been a band director and arts administrator in Virginia and Maryland for 35 years.
The honorees will receive their awards at MMEA’s annual conference later this month.