Alan Javan Culbreath

Senior
Nassau BOCES Rosemary Kennedy School
Hempstead UFSD

When Alan Javan Culbreath moves on from the Rosemary Kennedy School this year, he leaves behind a legacy of accomplishment. His notable achievements will have a profound influence on music teacher education programs throughout Nassau County. A student musician and lyrical drummer, Mr. Culbreath's high-profile accomplishments have positively impacted generations of music and arts educators.

In 2005, Mr. Culbreath was a guest performer at the New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education professional development workshop, "Teaching Music to Students with Autism and Developmental Disabilities." His performance was a historic achievement that highlighted for educators the strengths and capabilities of special education students.

In 2008, Mr. Culbreath joined his fellow Rosemary Kennedy school students in a standards-based music lesson. This lesson became part of the New York State School Music Association's DVD project, "Music Views Across the State." The DVD was widely circulated throughout Nassau County schools and is currently used in teacher education programs. His performance is a tremendous inspiration for instrumental teachers who have inclusion students in their school music programs.

In 2013, Mr. Culbreath accompanied, on drums, an age-level peer for her College Senior Graduate Clarinet Recital at Long Island University. His performance helped to change the paradigm of expectations of students with disabilities through the arts and served to demonstrate how these students can make a significant positive contribution to society.

"Despite Alan Culbreath's extraordinary challenges," wrote his award nominator, "his passion, talents and success have not only enriched district-wide programs, but have also changed the understanding of how music supports academic achievement and overall school success for students with disabilities."