Dr. Michelle S. McConkey is Associate Professor of Music Education at California State University in Chico, California. She received her doctoral degree in music education from Arizona State University and completed a master’s degree in music education at Brigham Young University, where she co-conducted the University Chorale and received Kodály certification (Levels I, II, and III). Michelle also received a bachelor’s degree in music education from the Crane School of Music. She is an active clinician for local school districts and presents workshops and research sessions at state, national, and international music education conferences. 

Michelle’s research interests include the health and wellness of undergraduate music education students, including the development of SEL skills, the relationship between music and the emotional development of children, and the music teacher’s role as an emotional model in child development. Michelle has taught for over twenty years, including nine years in the public and private schools of New York State, Utah, and Arizona as a general music specialist. Michelle continues to work with children as part of a partnership between the local school district and Chico State, as well as with the children’s choir of Chico. 

Workshops

Your Well-Being Matters! - Music Education

This interactive session is filled with a variety of activities that introduce pre-service teachers to the construct of SEL and promote personal health and well-being.

From the Inside Out: Social Emotional Learning and Elementary Classroom Music Education - Music Education

In this interactive session, participants explore a musical adventure using Social Emotional Learning and will learn activities designed to help PreK–5 students thrive and withstand the tests of life.

Children’s Literature and Music in the Elementary Classroom - Music Education

Tying books into the music we present can serve as the catalyst for learning. This interactive clinic provides examples of children’s literature that can be integrated into the general music classroom. Activities include singing, movement, playing instruments, composition/arranging, active musical listening, other art forms, and other subject areas.

Take Time to Fill Your Own Cup - Music Education

Teachers must develop their own Social Emotional Learning (SEL) skills before teaching SEL to students. In this session, in-service music teachers will explore strategies and activities that promote personal thought, health, and well-being, which helps prevent burnout and encourages teacher retention.