NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WGNS) - The Country Music Association (CMA) has proudly unveiled the 2025 class of its CMA Foundation Music Teachers of Excellence, recognizing 30 exceptional music educators from across the United States — including three teachers from Rutherford County Schools.

Reggie Coleman (Rocky Fork Middle School), Garrett Doo (Smyrna High School), and Nicholas Efstathiou (Riverdale High School) were selected as part of this prestigious group, celebrated for their outstanding dedication to transforming students’ lives through music education.

Now in its ninth year, the CMA Foundation’s Music Teachers of Excellence program highlights educators who demonstrate instructional excellence, foster positive learning environments, and leave a lasting impact on their communities.

“Music Teachers of Excellence is about shining a light on educators who are transforming the lives of their students every single day,” said Tiffany Kerns, Executive Director of the CMA Foundation. “These teachers are leaders, mentors, and changemakers, and they deserve to feel seen and uplifted by our music community.”

Each honoree receives a $5,000 award, with half allocated for personal use and the other half designated for their classroom or music program. In addition, the teachers will participate in a year of professional development and receive special access to CMA events, including CMA Fest and the CMA Awards.

The 2025 honorees will be celebrated at a red-carpet gala on Wednesday, September 10, at Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The event will bring together artists, community leaders, and music industry professionals to recognize the powerful work of these educators.

To further elevate the celebration, a special Music Teachers of Excellence Planning Committee — made up of industry leaders from Amazon Music, YouTube, Spotify, WME, MCA, WWE Music Group, and others — is supporting the gala and helping ensure an unforgettable experience for the honorees.

“This program is a powerful reminder that our industry’s future begins in classrooms across the country, and that we all have a role to play in supporting it,” said Sloane Cavitt Logue, WME Partner and Chair of the Planning Committee.

The CMA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Country Music Association, was established in 2011 to champion music education nationwide. Its mission is to transform lives by providing access to quality music programs, professional development for teachers, and opportunities for students.

For a full list of the 2025 honorees and more information, visit CMAfoundation.org.