A Saskatoon Public Schools teacher who was instrumental in making band programs more accessible to elementary students has received the Canadian Music Educators' Association (CMEA) Builders Award for Saskatchewan in recognition of her work to advance music education.
Yvonne Kurpjuweit of W. P. Bate Community School has taught elementary band and arts education in Saskatchewan for 17 years and is described as a passionate teacher who brings humour, joy, creativity, and love of music to her students.
"Yvonne is a very deserving recipient of the Builders Award for the Canadian Music Educators' Association," the nomination read. "She embodies the spirit and professionalism that this award celebrates."
Kurpjuweit was an original member of the planning team for Saskatoon Public Schools' Band Booster Operational Project (BBOP), which provides instruments at little to no charge for students at six community schools in order to reduce financial barriers to participation in band.
As a board member for the Saskatchewan Music Educators' Association, Kurpjuweit's volunteer efforts included the provincial junior and intermediate band north program planning committee. This joint initiative with the Saskatchewan Band Association provides an honour band experience for students across the northern part of the province.
She has also contributed to school division music committees such as beginner band clinic and Music Monday and led professional development sessions to share her love of learning with arts education colleagues.