Washington Senate honors piano teachers with unanimous resolution

The Washington State Senate unanimously adopted Senate Resolution 86 98 on Feb. 23, formally recognizing the artistic and educational contributions of piano teachers across the state.

Senator Conway introduced the resolution, telling colleagues it grew out of conversations with parents and local music teachers. "This is a fun resolution on a very busy day here," Conway said, describing parents who urged recognition for teachers who volunteer thousands of hours to run performances and student programs. Several senators followed with personal stories about their first teachers and the role piano instruction played in their lives.

Senator Lovellette described a community teacher, "Her name is Nell Krueger, and she has been teaching piano lessons out of her home for many, many, many years," and said the teacher had an ‘‘indelible mark’’ on music programs in Anacortes. Senator Harris and others emphasized music’s broader educational benefits.

After debate, the chair put the question for adoption; members responded by voice and the president declared, "The resolution is adopted." The chamber then recognized guests from the Washington State Music Teachers Association and the National Guild of Piano Teachers in the gallery, including Kira Myler (Washington State Music Teachers Association president), Jason Kuo (vice president) and Hannah Cho (chair of the National Guild).

The resolution text praised piano teachers’ cultural contributions, their volunteerism with performance and educational programs, and called for copies to be transmitted to relevant professional organizations. No formal fiscal action was associated with the measure.

The Senate returned to budget consideration after the ceremony; the resolution adoption concluded the floor’s recognition of music educators for the day.