melanie huber - Choir Director for the Folsom Cordova Unified School District - two choirs at Folsom High School, Chamber and Concert, and the Intermediate and Advanced choirs at Sutter Middle school.

Being a member of the ACDA has allowed me the chance for professional development which not only betters myself but the lives of my students. The events organized by ACDA allow for something precious-a chance to spend meaningful time with my fellow musical peers; during this time, we try out new teaching methods, learn from each other’s mistakes and successes and of course, my favorite part, we sing together. All the collaboration, lessons and time spent with my peers only serve to better myself and the teaching experience that I bring to my students. Each summer retreat offers the opportunity for rejuvenation and inspiration before the new school year; time spent with my colleagues’ leaves me with new music to try with my choirs, new ways of being inclusive so that every student who walks in my door knows that music will always have place for them to belong. If it weren’t for the welcoming and supporting community of the ACDA, I wouldn’t be the director that I am today. I am ACDA means that I am a lifelong choral music professional that advocates for my art, my colleagues and the importance of music in educating "the whole student." Currently my choirs are very excited about performing at the Arts in Action event at Folsom High School Back for the first time since the lockdown. VAPA students perform at a one hour assembly, two days in a row for their peers as well as school and district personnel. My choir will be opening the show with The Storm is Passing Over, arranged by Barbara W. Baker. My High School choirs were also very proud to have two singers selected for All State Choir in February. ​