Jennifer Jimenez , a music teacher and band director at South Miami Senior High School in Miami-Dade Public Schools, has built her career around the belief that “band is the family that you choose.” For nearly two decades, that philosophy has shaped her approach to teaching, allowing her to create a supportive environment that uplifts students, families, and the broader school community.

That commitment recently earned Jimenez the title of 2026 Music Educator of the Year, awarded by the Recording Academy and the Grammy Museum. The honor recognizes educators who have made a significant and lasting impact on music education while demonstrating a continued commitment to sustaining music programs in schools.

Throughout her 19-year career, Jimenez has expanded opportunities for her students both inside and outside the classroom. Under her leadership, students from South Miami Senior High School have performed on prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall and two Super Bowls. Jimenez has also secured more than $84,000 in grant funding to support and expand the school’s music program.

Jimenez ’s connection to education and the Miami community began while she was a student at the University of Miami and has continued throughout her career. Beyond the classroom, her work has included research focused on underrepresented populations in music education, earning her the Florida International University’s Graduate Research Award. She has also partnered with the Greater Miami Youth Symphony to provide free and reduced-cost music programs and camps for students throughout Miami.

In addition to her impact as an educator, Jimenez has distinguished herself as a musician and leader in the arts community. Her accomplishments include induction into the University of Miami Band Hall of Fame, receiving the Kennedy Center Sondheim Inspirational Teaching Award, and serving as the principal percussionist for the Miami Symphony Orchestra.

As part of the Music Educator of the Year recognition, Jimenez received a $10,000 honorarium along with a matching grant for the South Miami Senior High School music program. She continues to support the profession by mentoring aspiring teachers as a clinical supervising teacher and by sharing her expertise through district and state presentations, as well as serving as an adjudicator.

The Music Educator Award honors educators who make a lasting contribution to the field of music education. Jimenez was selected from more than 2,000 nominations submitted across all 50 states and ultimately chosen as the winner among 10 finalists.

“I’m extremely humbled to represent music educators across the country who work tirelessly every day,” Jimenez said in a news release. “I am grateful for the light this recognition shines on our extraordinary school communities.”

Jimenez was formally recognized at the Recording Academy’s Special Merit Awards Ceremony on Saturday, Jan. 31, during Grammy Week 2026, one day before the 2026 Grammy Awards.