Greenbriar Music Teacher Jeremy Bartunek attended a red-carpet gala at Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center, where he was one of just 30 educators nationwide to be recognized as a 2025 Country Music Association (CMA) Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence. 

The CMA Foundation is now in its ninth year of recognizing music educators who demonstrate teacher excellence, create positive learning environments, and make a lasting impact on their communities.

In addition to general music instruction for all K-5 students at Greenbriar, Mr. Bartunek is the director of the Northbrook 28 Children’s Choir, which is an after-school activity for all students in grades 1-5. The choir performs regularly at community locations and for civic events.  

Mr. Bartunek was recognized for his efforts to connect music to broader life experiences, foster leadership among his students and build meaningful community relationships through community performances. “It demonstrates your profound understanding that music is not just about performance, it’s about building connection and belonging,” the awards letter stated.

“Winning the CMA Foundation Music Teachers of Excellence Award is an extraordinary honor—deeply humbling and profoundly affirming. I am incredibly fortunate to teach in District 28, where I am surrounded by inspiring students, a supportive community, and dedicated administrators and board members who empower me to pursue meaningful, creative work. I’m equally grateful for my exceptional colleagues, who generously offer their time and collaboration so our students can experience the transformative power of music,” Mr. Bartunek said.

Mr. Bartunek received a $5,000 award, split evenly between personal use and his classroom. Click here to watch his interview on ABC 7 Chicago!