JAM believes that in order to have effective programs it is imperative that teachers work cooperatively to develop strategies and materials to benefit the whole organization. Our teachers come from a variety of backgrounds. Many, as traditional musicians, never received any formal training themselves. They learned within their communities from mentors and family members, usually on a one to one basis. We ask them to enter a classroom setting to teach from 4 – 10 students at a time – students who represent a wide spectrum of aptitude and motivation. It is not an easy job!
Staff development workshops are currently projected to occur twice a year in different regions of the JAM community. As well, we are exploring the development of some training modules which will be offered online or through mailed packets for those who do not have access or skills to navigate computers.