Waukon High School Band Director Jo Ann Sherman honored by NEIBA with Philip Sehmann Excellence in Teaching Award
Honored for Excellence in Teaching ... During the Waukon High School Band’s Christmas Concert in December, Waukon High School Band Director Jo Ann Sherman was honored by the Northeast Iowa Bandmasters Association with a surprise awarding of the Philip Sehmann Excellence in Teaching Award presented to individuals who meet the criteria of excellence, dedication and commitment to the value of instrumental music education in schools. Pictured above (left to right), Dustin Bliven, Decorah High School Band Director and Past-President for the Northeast Iowa Bandmasters Association District for the 2020-2021 school year, presented the award to Mrs. Sherman at the concert. Submitted photo.
At a surprise presentation during the Waukon High School Band’s Christmas Concert held in December, the Northeast Iowa Bandmasters Association (NEIBA) honored Jo Ann Knipfer Sherman, Band Director at Waukon High School, as the recipient of the 2020 Philip Sehmann Excellence in Teaching Award. The award was presented to Director Sherman at the concert by Dustin Bliven, Decorah High School Band Director and Past-President for the Northeast Iowa Bandmasters Association District for the 2020-2021 school year.
The Philip Sehmann Excellence in Teaching Award is given in memory of Philip Sehmann, who had a highly distinguished career as Director of Bands at Crestwood Community Schools. This award is presented to those individuals who meet the criteria of excellence, dedication and commitment to the value of instrumental music education in NEIBA member schools.
Jo Ann Knipfer Sherman is currently the director of the Waukon High School Bands. Along with her high school teaching responsibilities, she is also responsible for teaching beginning band to fifth graders at East Elementary School, woodwind lessons districtwide and percussion lessons for fifth graders and high school students. She has been teaching in Waukon for the Allamakee Community School District since she started her career in 1992.
Sherman started as the fifth and sixth grade band director for East and Waterville elementary schools. She transferred to teaching middle school band in 1996 and stayed there for 11 years. She has been in her current position for 14 years.
Sherman’s bands traditionally participate in state large group and small group contests. Her high school bands have received Division I ratings at contests eight of the 12 years they have performed. Prior to her appointment to the high school program, the district had only ever received three Division I ratings in total. Her solo and ensemble groups also perform at a high level at state contests, often receiving over 50% Division I ratings for their performances. She also directs the Indian Marching Band and Jazz Band.
