Kayla Kurtz

Mrs. Kayla Kurtz is a proud 2014 graduate of Duquesne University, where she received her Bachelor of Science in Music Education. In 2019, she earned her Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Modern Band, and in 2023, earned her Master of Music Education degree, both from Lebanon Valley College. Kayla has been a public school music educator since 2014, and is currently a middle school music teacher in the West Shore School District, located near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She teaches 7th and 8th grade general music, utilizing a curriculum centered around Popular Music Pedagogy, which she developed and collaboratively applied throughout the district. In addition to general music, Kayla is a director in the 7th and 8th grade choral program, where she actively collaborates with colleagues throughout the district to foster engaging and inspiring choral experiences.

Kayla is a current member of the National Association for Music Education and the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association. She has had the privilege of presenting at Duquesne University and the PMEA Annual In-Service Conference relating to her modern band experience. She is passionate about continuing her education, focusing on implementing Popular Music Pedagogy techniques and curriculum in the general music classroom.

In her free time, Kayla enjoys spending time with her husband, also a 2014 Duquesne Music Education graduate, and daughter.

• M.M., Education, Lebanon Valley College
• Post-baccalaureate Certificate in Modern Band, Lebanon Valley College
• B.S., Music Education, Duquesne University

• Middle School General Music Pedagogy
• Popular Music Pedagogy
• Curriculum Design