Jack E. Schaeffer

MENC President:  1972-1974

 

Born:

 

Died: 

 

Degrees: 

Graduate of Western Washington State College, Bellingham, and the University of Washington, Seattle

Graduate work at University of Colorado, University of Denver, University of Utah, and Stanford University

 

Teaching Employment:

Director of Music Education for Seattle Public Schools

Has taught at the elementary and secondary levels in general music, band, and orchestra

 

 

Professional Accomplishments: 

1960-1962:  President of the Washington Music Educators Association

1958-1960:  Vice President of the Washington Music Educators Association

1965-1968:  Board member for the Project Policy Committee of the MENC-Ford       Foundation Contemporary Music Project

1967-1969:  President of the Northwest Division of MENC

 

Under Schaeffer’s’ direction a number of pilot programs in the Seattle School system was introduced; such as, class piano programs at the junior high level, class organ in the elementary schools, use of recorders at both levels, and an introduction of Afr0-American music in the course of study.

 

Personal Biography:

Mr. Schaeffer with his wife Phyllis and son Gary lived in Seattle during the time of his Presidency.  He was active as a church organist and choir director.  Schaeffer was instrumental in helping to enlist support of community agencies and organization for the public school program.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notable Quotes:

 

     We hear it said that music educator’s talk to themselves too much.  Through MENC, however, the music education message has been spread to many other professional, governmental, and community organizations.

 

     There may have been a time when an organization like MENC could continue to exist just because it was there-because it had headquarters staff, continuity in leadership, an annual budget, a professional journal, and other manifestations of stability.  But no more.

 

     Unlike many professional associations, MENC is not just an office in the nation’s capital; rather it is the combined thoughts, actions, and drives of thousands upon thousands of individuals, each with a voice that can be heard.

 

     Each member of MENC has equal access to the governing structure.  And the nature of that structure, including associated organizations for those with specialized interests, keeps the leadership close to the entire membership.

 

Jack E. Schaeffer

Music Educators Journal, January, 1974