URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) — Urbana School District 116 music educator Stacey Peterik has been recognized nationally as one of this year’s “50+ Music Teachers Who Make a Difference” by Music Education Arts Magazine.

Peterik, who teaches at Urbana High School, works with students across multiple grade levels and ensembles, from beginning fifth-grade band students to high school marching band and jazz musicians.

District officials said the recognition reflects the lasting impact Peterik has had on students throughout the district.

“We are fortunate to have Stacey’s expertise in USD 116,” the district said in a statement. “Her dedication to students and music education continues to make a difference across many grade levels and programs.”

Peterik said one of the most rewarding parts of her job is being able to watch students develop over several years, both musically and personally.

“My proudest moment as a music teacher is watching students grow from their very first experiences in fifth-grade band all the way through their high school music careers,” Peterik said. “Because I get to work with students across multiple ensembles and grade levels, I’m lucky enough to see that full journey — from the early squeaks and squawks to standing up and performing solos in jazz band, knowing their spots while playing confidently in marching band, or discovering the kind of music they truly connect with, whether in band or in another music medium.”

“One of my favorite parts is watching them grow not just as musicians, but as people, as they develop confidence and really come into who they are,” she added.

Peterik said she hopes her classrooms and ensembles provide students with a safe and supportive environment throughout their school years.

“I hope to create a space where students feel safe, supported, and comfortable being themselves while they grow as musicians and individuals,” Peterik said. “Since I often work with students for up to eight years, it’s really important to me that they know I’m someone they can count on.”

She said she wants students to know they always have a place within the music program and someone to turn to if they need support.

“More than anything, I hope they leave with a lifelong appreciation for music — even if they don’t continue playing the instrument after they leave high school,” Peterik said.

Peterik also said kindness and communication are among the most important lessons she hopes students learn through music education.

“Kindness and communication are so important,” she said. “Our ensembles rely heavily on clear communication and mutual respect. Communication is just as important — whether it’s letting us know about an absence or speaking up when something isn’t right, it helps the group function smoothly.”

“When students communicate clearly and treat each other with respect, it makes a huge difference both musically and in the overall culture of the program,” Peterik added. “These are traits I believe will help them be successful in the future.”