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Kristen Singer M.M. ?20 Local musical theatre teacher and Carthage alumna Kristen Singer M.M. ’20 recently received the 2020 Claes Nobel Educators of the Year award from the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS). The award is presented to teachers who display an outstanding and noteworthy commitment to preparing students for success inside and outside of the classroom.

“The award is a tremendous honor,” Ms. Singer said. “The best part about it was that a wonderful, amazing student nominated me. Her words were beautiful and that in itself was a reward. Times have been pretty tough for teachers during COVID, so for something so positive to happen, it was really meaningful.”

Ms. Singer graduated from the Master of Music in Music Theatre Vocal Pedagogy program in 2020.

“I have a lot more tools under my belt after this master’s program,” said Ms. Singer. “I also have more confidence in my own abilities as a performer and look forward to auditioning and putting myself out there more when the world opens up again.”

The award in the category of Top Band/Music Director came with a $5,000 grant, which Ms. Singer says she will put toward her classroom at Harborside Academy in Kenosha, Wis. once COVID-19 regulations allow students to share their performances with an audience.

“My passion for art is what I want to share with others so that they too can find joy in music or theatre or in whatever artistic medium appeals to them. Without the passion for the art in the first place, I wouldn’t be a good teacher,” said Ms. Singer. “The reward is watching students succeed.”