Orchestra teacher to receive 2025 PMEA Citation of Excellence Award
Williamsport Area High School (WAHS) orchestra teacher Matthew Radspinner will be recognized for his lasting contributions to the field of music education.
Radspinner has been selected to receive the 2025 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Citation of Excellence in Teaching Award for District 8 during the association’s All-State Festival in April at the Kalahari Convention Center.
“I am honored and humbled to receive this award,” Radspinner said. “To be included among a list of educators I deeply respect is incredibly meaningful. I also recognize that this award could be given to so many of my colleagues who are just as dedicated and passionate about music education. I am proud to represent them and the incredible work we all do to inspire and support our students.”
A 20-year veteran at WASD, Radspinner also serves as the district’s music department lead teacher. In addition, he is an adjunct music education faculty member at Lycoming College, a member of the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra and Williamsport City Jazz Orchestra, an advisory board member for the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, a faculty member for the Ohio State String Teacher Workshop, and a member of PMEA and the American String Teachers Association (ASTA).
He’s in his 14th year at WAHS, having held prior roles as a middle school and elementary strings teacher at the former Curtin Middle School, Cochran and Sheridan Elementary schools.
His contributions to music education have been previously recognized. He was named by the Pennsylvania/Delaware String Teachers Association (PADESTA) as both its Teacher of the Year in 2017 and Young Teacher of the Year in 2009.
“Music has the power to connect people, and I love creating an environment where students feel a sense of belonging and collaboration within the classroom,” he said. “What I love most about teaching is watching students grow — not just as musicians but as confident, disciplined and creative individuals.”
“Seeing them develop a deep sense of ownership and commitment to their ensemble is incredibly fulfilling,” he added. “I also love that my classroom is a space where students from all walks of life can come together and succeed, regardless of their background. Music has a unique way of bringing people together, and it’s rewarding to create an environment where every student feels valued, supported and inspired to grow.”
“Matt’s dedication and his ability to inspire students both in and beyond the classroom is truly exceptional,” said Kristin Takach, director of secondary curriculum. “His commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration and a deep love of music has made a significant impact on our students and our district. We couldn’t be prouder of his well-deserved recognition.”
Radspinner is the fifth WASD music educator to receive this citation since 2010, joining past recipients Lori Nelson (2024); Kent Weaver (2021, 2010); his wife, Anna Radspinner (2016); and Beverly Schmidt (2012).