Md. Teacher Nominated For Grammy Music Educator Of The Year

MARRIOTSVILLE, Md. (WJZ) -- One man is changing the lives of his music students at a Marriottsville high school and now he could be recognized on a national stage.

Mike Schuh has more on the Maryland teacher nominated for the 2015 Grammy Music Educator of the Year and why he's received this honor.

Just a few months ago, Howard County's new music administrator taught choir.

But don't be fooled, this administrator is really a rock star, according to his former class at Marriotts Ridge High School.

"He's freaking awesome. He's just that awesome," one student said.

These high school students, usually a cynical bunch toward teachers, simply love Terry Eberhardt.

Nine years ago when Eberhardt started, there were seven students in his choir class. Now thanks to his enthusiasm, his joy and his ability to connect, there are 165 kids in the school's choir.

"I love Mr. E; he's family," said Amanda Taylor, former student.

Taylor says he influenced her to become a teacher.

With one note, one kid at a time, he's truly influencing lives.

"He brought music to kids who didn't even think they were interested in music," his mentor Lynn Rashid said.

Rashid says he's getting kids to think.

"That type of thinking is valuable to problem solve other parts of their lives," Rashid said.

Seven thousand teachers were nominated to be 2015 Grammy Music Educator of the Year and Eberhardt is now in the final 25.

"In my own craft, I'm always trying to get better," he said.

No matter what the contest outcome, he knows he has already won life's most important event.

Eberhardt currently works as the county's instructional facilitator for music.  He's been recognized before when he was named Howard County Teacher of the Year in 2008.

Twenty-two finalists will be cut down to 10 on Dec. 9. The winner will be flown to Los Angeles to accept the award and will  be announced during the Grammys on Sunday, Jan. 26, 2015. The winner also received a $10,000 prize and a $10,000 grant for his or her school.

The Grammys have been telecasted on CSB for 31 years. They started honoring music teachers last year.

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