Harmon Hero Award Winner Never Misses a Beat

Updated April 18, 2011
Each year, the Score a Goal in the Classroom organization selects one outstanding educator to receive the prestigious Chesapeake Energy Hero Award. This award honors the day-to-day commitment of hardworking school employees; the true heroes of education!

We are proud to announce that our very own Catherine Schulze, the music teacher at Glenn Harmon Elementary School has been selected as the 2011 Chesapeake Energy Hero Award winner!

So what makes Ms. Schulze stand out above 600 other nominees?

In addition to skillfully keeping the attention of a class full of elementary school children, Schulze is known for her exceptional classroom organization and order. She also exudes compassion and energy throughout each school day.

Schulze, who holds a Masters degree in Music Education from the University of North Texas, is a continuous learner of different teaching methods. She implements an original technique she calls Focus Movement, which incorporates motion into the music. This activity allows students to express the music through their bodies while increasing rhythm, coordination and balance.

“I want the kids to feel like music is natural and playful,” said Schulze.

Schulze also engages students through the use of the Promethean Interactive Whiteboard in her classroom.

“The kids are so techno-savvy,” Schulze said. “Sometimes they catch on to the tech tools even quicker than I do!”

Soon to complete her 14th year of teaching for Mansfield ISD, Schulze’s love of musical instruction is as strong as ever. Her joy and devotion to music shine through as she interacts with her students each day.

“She sets her expectations up front and the kids know what they are,” said Glenn Harmon Principal Sharon Ferguson.  “They are on task and focused because they enjoy what they are doing. They want to be there and they want to be active.”

Principal Ferguson made it clear that there is no shortage of kind things to say about Schulze. She pours her heart into every music lesson and the students are captivated by each note.

“I feel I am so lucky to be honored for something I love to do,” said Schulze. “I can’t wait to get to work every day!”



Shulze received the Hero Award at a concert by the world-renowned Schola Cantorum of Texas Choir. The concert was held at Mansfield First United Methodist Church at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, April 11, 2011.