Dresden Middle’s Becca Steele named semifinalist for national award

Weakley County Schools is proud to share that Becca Steele, band director and music teacher at Dresden Middle School, has been named a semifinalist for the prestigious CMA Foundation Music Teachers of Excellence Award.

Now entering its 10th year, the program honors public school music teachers nationwide for their exceptional impact on students, schools, and communities. For Dresden Middle, that impact is felt every day in Mrs. Steele’s band room where confidence grows, students discover their strengths, and music becomes a pathway to belonging and possibility.

Steele is currently in her third year of leading a full-time band program at Dresden Middle. Her success in building a culture where beginners feel brave and small victories are treated like big wins has been a driving force behind its tremendous growth.

“The students are the heart of this honor,” Steele shared. “Seeing them grow, gain confidence, and discover who they are through music is what makes this work so meaningful. I’m honored to represent Dresden Middle alongside the incredible students who make it special.”

Dresden Middle School Principal David Lewellen praised Steele’s leadership and the momentum she has created within the program, sharing that her influence shows not only in her classroom, but in the confidence her students carry throughout the school day.

“Mrs. Steele has launched our band program with such creativity and purpose,” said Lewellen. “Her ability to connect with students is remarkable, and the confidence and joy she instills in them shows up not just in performances, but in who they’re becoming. We are incredibly proud of her.”

Director of Schools Jeff Cupples shared his pride in both Steele’s recognition and her daily work with students, highlighting the ripple effect her work has on the entire school community.

“The arts play a vital role in making our students well-rounded and confident,” noted Cupples. “Mrs. Steele represents the very best of that mission. We are grateful for the way she inspires students to think, create, and grow.”

The CMA Foundation will select 30 teachers for the final 2026 Music Teachers of Excellence cohort, each receiving a $5,000 grant—half for classroom resources and half for personal professional support. Awardees will be honored at a ceremony in Nashville on October 7, 2026.

Weakley County Schools proudly congratulates Becca Steele on this outstanding achievement and deeply appreciates the creativity, commitment, and care she brings to our students and school community every single day.

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