***NEWS RELEASE***
BALTIMORE, MD – Queen Anne’s County Public Schools proudly celebrates Kent Island High School Principal Daniel Harding and Band Director Kimberly Scully, who were honored with the 2025 Maryland Music Educators Association (MMEA) Awards of Excellence on Saturday, March 8, at the Baltimore Convention Center. They were joined by Michael Bell, Supervisor of Visual and Performing Arts, who nominated them for these prestigious state awards.
🎥 Click here to watch Principal Dan Harding & Kimberly Scully’s awards ceremony.
Before an audience of educators, musicians, and fine arts administrators, Bell recognized Harding and Scully’s unwavering commitment to music education and their lasting impact on students and the arts community.
“Dan Harding and Kimberly Scully’s dedication to the fine arts is unmatched. For Dan, it’s not just administrative—it’s personal. He champions our programs, ensuring every student has the chance to learn, perform, and grow. Kimberly has shaped generations of musicians through her passion and mentorship, whether guiding students to Carnegie Hall, earning Superior Ratings at festivals, or leading as Vice President of the Eastern Shore Band Directors Association. She’s a rock star at every level. Their leadership sets a powerful example for music educators and administrators across Maryland,” Bell shared during the ceremony.
Harding was recognized as MMEA Outstanding School Administrator of the Year for his commitment to the arts, expansion of music programs, and hands-on support for students and teachers. Under his leadership, KIHS became the first school on the Eastern Shore to host the MMEA Fall In-Service Conference, solidifying its reputation as a model for excellence.
Scully received the MMEA Outstanding Music Educator of the Year Award in honor of her exceptional career contributions to music education. Her leadership has helped KIHS students excel in local, state, and national music performances.
Superintendent Dr. Patricia Saelens expressed her pride in their accomplishments: “I am so proud of Principal Harding and Mrs. Scully. They are truly deserving of these MMEA state awards. Queen Anne’s County Public Schools is beyond lucky to have such dedicated leaders championing music education.”
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Kibler added: “I was thrilled to learn that Principal Harding and Mrs. Scully received these prestigious awards. They are both incredibly supportive of music education and all of our students at Kent Island High School. This recognition is well deserved.”
These awards reinforce QACPS’ commitment to excellence in arts education and highlight the district’s dedication to fostering outstanding music programs in its schools.
Download a PDF copy of the news release here.