School officials honored at OKMEA awards banquet

Pictured at the Awards Banquet, from left, are Keith Crocker (East Middle School Assistant Principal, Big Blue Band Assistant Director and Jazz Band Director); Dan Larson (former Po-Hi Orchestra Conductor); Paula Cochran (Po-Hi Director of Orchestras/Conductor), OKMEA Exemplary Orchestra Teacher of the Year; Shelley Arrott (Superintendent of School); Curtis Layton (Executive Director of Human Resources).

Ponca City Public Schools officials were honored recently at the OKMEA (Oklahoma Music Educators Association) Honors Reception.

Paula Cochran was recognized as the Exemplary Orchestra Teacher of the Year. The Awards Ceremony is part of the OKMEA Winter Conference, held in Tulsa at the Downtown Double Tree Hotel.

Exemplary teachers are nominated by their peers, recommended by the OKMEA Awards committee, and confirmed by the OKMEA Executive Board.

Cochran is in her 19^th year with Ponca City Public Schools and has been teaching for 24 years. She currently serves as Director of Orchestras and District Instrumental Music Coordinator.

Former Orchestra Director Dan Larson attended the banquet to honor Cochran. Larson served as Orchestra Director for more than 30 years. During his tenure, he received many awards and accolades including member of the OKMEA Hall of Fame and National Music Educator of the Year.

Under their batons, the orchestras have been consistent award winners, receiving superior ratings at state and district orchestra contests, as well as state and district ensemble contests.