Owensboro Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Matthew Constant has been named Administrator of the Year by the Kentucky Music Educators Association for his support of the fine arts in the district.
Constant was a finalist among administrators from all of the other KMEA districts across the state, and he was presented with the award February 10 at the annual conference in Louisville.
Constant was initially nominated for the KMEA District 2 Administrator of the Year award by Owensboro High School band director Abe Barr. After winning that, his application was considered at the state level, and Constant said he was told a couple of months ago that he had received the statewide honor.
“I am both humbled and proud to represent, advocate, and cheerlead our fine arts and music programs every chance I get,” Constant said. “This award is not about me but a testament to the great people that have grown our programs and keep them so strong. We have opportunities here in OPS that others in Kentucky and the nation simply don’t have.”
Constant said while his name is on the award, it’s a reflection of the commitment that he, the OPS board, and many others throughout the school system place on the arts in the district.
“It means that others recognize the great work that is going on here, the impact the arts has on kids’ lives, and the amazing work going on daily,” Constant said. “We have dedicated many resources to break down all barriers for access. When kids want to play a musical instrument, they can without any additional financial strain on the family. Over 80% of our kids are involved in at least one of our arts programs throughout their K-12 education. That’s astounding.”
Constant said it’s long been a priority at OPS to focus on music education and their many fine arts offerings.
“Arts changes lives. It impacts kids in positive ways in the classroom. Being a part of a musical group teaches kids commitment, tenacity, grit, and loyalty,” Constant said. “These are all qualities we want in any future citizen of the world.”
