ILMEA's Future Music Educators (FMES) program has grown significantly, from 119 applicants in 2012 to 219 last year - that’s 84% growth in the program! In order to give reviewers a fuller picture of each candidate, FMES mentors and volunteer leaders have introduced a more robust application process this year.

Nominating educators will now rate applicants on a 1–10 scale (previously 1–5) for each characteristic. and will also answer three brief questions (3–5 sentences each) about each applicant, which is the ideal place to provide evidence supporting their ratings.

Student applicants will see three new questions on their applications as well.

Applications, video links, and educator responses will be evaluated by two reviewers from higher education who are deeply involved in pre-service music education. Given these additions, please plan for extra time to complete the process this year.

FMES applications are due October 15 at 5:00 PM. Guides for both educators and students are available at ilmea.org/fmes.