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2026 SEASON 8
PRESS RELEASE
WELCOME DR. MITCHELL
DR. MEARA MITCHELL
Kansas City Area Youth Jazz
2026 Band Director Fellow
Dr. Meara Mitchell is a dedicated and influential figure in music education, serving the North Kansas City School District as both the Instrumental Music Coordinator and the Director of Bands at Staley High School.
With 26 years of experience, she is a passionate advocate for the performing arts, striving to create inclusive and meaningful musical experiences for students. Her leadership extends beyond the band room, having served as the KC Metro Vice President for both Middle and High School Bands, and was recently voted President-Elect for KC Metro District #3.
Dr. Mitchell is deeply engaged in professional organizations, maintaining memberships in NAfME, MMEA, MBA, MOAJE, WBDI, and MWBDA, where she also serves as President. As an active musician, she regularly performs with the Northwinds Symphonic Band on euphonium and the Lee’s Summit Jazz Orchestra on trombone.
A lifelong Missouri resident, Dr. Mitchell’s journey in education began at Missouri State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education.
Her commitment to professional growth led her to Baker University for a Master of Arts in Education, followed by an Education Specialist degree in Secondary Administration from the University of Central Missouri.
She ultimately achieved her Doctor of Education from William Woods University.
With a career devoted to inspiring young musicians and strengthening the arts community, Dr. Mitchell continues to shape the future of music education with passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication.
ABOUT OUR BAND DIRECTOR FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
Our Kansas City Area Youth Jazz Band Director Fellowship program is designed to work in partnership with area music educators toward perpetuating the applied practice of jazz music performance.Through interacting side-by-side with Youth Jazz Clinicians, Band Director Fellows are introduced to state-of-the-art applied jazz practices and contemporary music industry business processes from the collective perspectives of leading teaching artists. Band Director Fellowships are awarded by personal invitation of the Artistic Director each season. Media Contact and General Inquiries: director@youthjazz.us
