Music Student Receives 2010 New Jersey Distinguished Student Teacher Award

Recent Montclair State University graduate, Michael Mahadeen, has been named a recipient of the 2010 New Jersey Distinguished Student Teacher award by the New Jersey Department of Education.  This award recognizes the state’s top 15 student teachers for the academic year from among the thousands of student teachers at the 22 teacher-preparing colleges and universities in the state. He was nominated by Montclair State University faculty, and was selected by a panel of educational leaders from across the state based on his academic record, recommendations, cooperating teacher evaluation and recommendation, and personal essay.

Mahadeen graduated in May with a 3.8 grade point average and a double major in Music with Music Education Concentration and Music with Theory/Composition Concentration.   According to Mahadeen, "when proper instruction is provided in music, it is possible to take any student to…a place where times ceases for a moment, and they feel empowered and capable of accomplishing anything while making deep, meaningful, and expressive art for all."  His primary instrument is the clarinet, and he also plays the saxophone, flute, and piano.  Mr. Mahadeen completed his student teaching in the Livingston School District.