More than 2,000 music teachers across the country were nominated for the 2025 Grammy Music Educator Award, and three of them teach in Lexington Public Schools. Jessica Billings‑White, Rachel Jayson, and Sarah Labrie were chosen because of how much they care about their students and how they make music fun and meaningful. Angela Carpenter, who leads the Performing Arts Department, said the teachers “are always looking out for the best of their students,” and understand what students need to stay involved in learning. She also shared that they bring energy, creativity, and teamwork to the entire department.

Billings‑White and Jayson both teach orchestra, while Labrie teaches chorus, music theory, and piano. They each have a strong background in music and years of experience in teaching. Billings‑White started playing the cello when she was only 3½ years old. She later studied music performance and teaching at the Boston Conservatory and has taught in Lexington for over a decade. Jayson teaches at more than one school and includes music from different cultures so that all students feel included and seen in the music they play. Labrie teaches both singing and instruments, and she believes it’s important to keep learning herself so she can be a better teacher and role model for her students.

Even though they were all nominated for the same award, the three teachers aren’t competing against each other. Instead, they support one another and celebrate each other’s success. Billings‑White said she’s proud to be nominated with other talented teachers she respects. Labrie said the recognition made her feel more confident in her work, and Jayson said she felt “humbled” that students and people in the community took the time to nominate her.

The Grammy Music Educator Award honors teachers who make a big difference in students’ lives through music. Only one teacher will win, but just being nominated is already a big achievement. These three teachers show how much their students appreciate them through the strong Lexington music education. They work hard to bring energy, creativity, and kindness into the classroom. Their passion for teaching shows that music education isn’t just about learning notes—it’s about helping students grow, express themselves, and build confidence through music.