At Southwest Middle School in San Diego, music teacher Keith R. Ballard teaches more than scales and chords. His students learn about self-esteem, cultural sensitivity and the importance of academics. Mr. Ballard started Southwest Middle School's "Island Steel Drum Band" and mariachi ensemble. More than 200 students are currently involved in his music program, many of whom never played an instrument previously. Members of the mariachi band have maintained good grades while traveling the country to perform on the Today Show,for President Bill Clinton and George Bush. His music programs have been featured on national TV six times and over 30 times on local television. Ballard has published 4 times in professional education / music journals. Mr. Ballard's music programs reflect the school's rich ethnic diversity with Hispanic, African-American, white and Filipino students performing together. Mr. Ballard has a degree in music education and is currently pursuing his master's degree in education administration.
1993 Arizona State University, B.S.
