Greenbriar music teacher Jeremy Bartunek was one of 30 extraordinary educators nationwide to be recognized as a Country Music Association 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.

Greenbriar Principal Dr. Ginny Hiltz made the surprise presentation to Jeremy with a group of students on Tuesday, May 6. “I’m really proud of Jeremy. He works extremely hard to create meaningful learning experiences for our students in his classroom and through the District’s Children’s Choir. This is a well-deserved honor,” Dr. Hiltz said.

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 will receive a $5,000 award, split evenly between personal use and his classroom. Honorees are also invited to participate in a year of professional development and engagement within the CMA network. The 2025 class of honorees will be celebrated at a red-carpet gala on Sept. 10 at Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center.