Three Lexington Public Schools (LPS) Performing Arts teachers, Jessica Billings-White, Rachel Jayson, and Sarah Labrie, have been named quarterfinalists for the 2025 GRAMMY Music Educator Award. Billings-White and Jayson conduct string orchestras throughout the district, while Labrie teaches chorus, music theory, and piano. Semifinalists and the eventual winner will be announced later this year.

Rachel Jayson

According to the GRAMMY website, more than 2,000 music educators across the country were nominated for the award. The application process is nomination-based, and once selected as quarterfinalists, educators are asked to submit a comprehensive portfolio which, “includes videos of teaching class, videos answering questions from the panel, and videos where we share a teaching tip or trick that could be useful to other music educators,” Labrie explained.

Angela Carpenter, LPS Performing Arts Coordinator, believes that Lexington’s nominees stood out because of their student-first approach to education. “What makes them such distinct candidates is the fact that they’re so student-driven,” Carpenter said. “They’re always looking out for the best of their students, what our students need and want, and really understanding the value of having the students embedded in the learning. They also bring so much fabulous energy and enthusiasm to our entire Performing Arts Department.” 

Sarah Labrie

For the educators themselves, being recognized as quarterfinalists carries personal and professional significance. “To be included alongside outstanding educators like Mx. Jayson and Ms. Labrie is truly humbling, as I hold both of them in the highest regard,” Billings-White told LexObserver. “I’ve always admired their work and never imagined myself being recognized on the same level.”

Labrie echoed that sentiment: “Being named a GRAMMY quarterfinalist alongside many incredible colleagues and role models in the field of music education feels like a huge honor,” she said. “It also gives me a renewed confidence in my teaching.”

All three teachers bring years of experience—not only as musicians, but also as educators. Billings-White began studying cello at just 3½ years old. Although she initially focused on orchestral performance, she embraced music education while studying at the Boston Conservatory, thanks to encouragement from mentors and peers. “I realized I didn’t have to choose between performance and education, I could do both,” she said.

Labrie also emphasized the importance of continued professional growth. “I feel growth every single year, if not every single day,” she said. Reflecting on the challenges of the early years, she added, “There is a steep learning curve during an educator’s first years.” She said she feels “very fortunate” to have taught a wide range of musical disciplines, vocal, instrumental, and general, across multiple grade levels and communities.

One of Billings-White’s favorite aspects of working in Lexington is the opportunity to watch students grow over many years. “Not many teachers can turn to a senior and say, ‘Remember when you started in 4th grade? ‘Hot Cross Buns’ felt nearly impossible, look at you now,’” she said. “That continuity and perspective are such a gift.”

Jessica Billings-White

Labrie added that much of the department’s strength comes from collaboration. “The legacy of the department is something my colleagues and I strive to uphold,” she said. “The collaborative spirit of teachers in our department is part of what allows us to continue building on that legacy.”

Carpenter believes the district’s strong support for the arts also plays a key role in making opportunities like this possible. “I think these awards really highlight the fact that Lexington is a very special community,” she said. “This is a district that really values the arts, really supports the arts, [and] celebrates the arts.”

Looking ahead, Labrie said she’s excited to continue growing as an educator in Lexington. “I hope to spend many more years here at LHS (Lexington High School), continuing to make great music and foster even greater community.”

William Tang is an editor at The Musket, Lexington High School’s student newspaper.

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1 Comment

  1. Thank you for highlighting the accomplishments of these talented educators in the LPS music program Lexington Observer! We are lucky to have them!

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