Congratulations to Hillcrest High School Choir Teacher, Debbie Futrell, for her recognition as the Missouri Choral Director’s Association (MCDA) South Central District Outstanding Director of the Year.
The Outstanding District Director Award is given annually at the MCDA Summer Conference. Choir directors are nominated by one of their colleagues within the South Central District. Then, the MCDA District membership votes on their top choice, and the selected individuals are honored at a banquet attended by most of the Choral Directors in Missouri. This award is a great honor, and it is given to a director who is dedicated to music education and whose choral program has consistently displayed a high level of achievement and excellence.
“I had the privilege of having her as my own teacher for nine years. This is an honor that she deserves.” said Courtney Dameron, Hillcrest family and consumer sciences teacher and SPS 2019-2020 Teacher of the Year. “I appreciate all that she does for Hillcrest students. The arts are an essential way to heal and grow students, and she is a foundation for our community.”
Futrell was surprised and humbled to receive the award. "What makes it so sweet is the fact that my colleagues whom I admire and respect immensely recognized me for my work. I consider this an award for Hillcrest Choir students because it is their hard work and passion that drive me. Teaching is one of the greatest joys of my life. Teaching choir was an easy choice for me because singing is such a big part of who I am," Debbie said. "It has been my lifelong goal to help others discover the joy of singing in a choir. I hope to instill in my students, not only a love for music, but also a love for each other. We often talk about caring for each other, being kind, and lifting each other up. For me, the beauty is not only in the music we create, but the bonds we share and the connection with others that are carried with us beyond our choir room."
