BEV KRAMER

Bev Kramer is beginning her 28th year in the field of Music Education, with the last 25 years educating music students in ACUSD #11. In addition to her duties as District Vocal Music Coordinator K-12, Mrs. Kramer also directs a 7/8th General Chorus of 190 students, 7/8th Honors Choir, AHS Advanced Choir, and AHS Musical /Choreographer Director.

Mrs. Kramer attended Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, and graduated from the University of Evansville in Indiana with a B.M.E. (Bachelor of Music Education/Voice). She graduated from SIU-E with a M.M.E. (Master of Music Education/Voice). In addition to a second Master’s Degree in Educational Administration, Mrs. Kramer attained a Specialist Degree in Educational Administration from SIU-E.

Mrs. Kramer began her teaching career in Mt. Carmel, Illinois as a middle school choral director. She returned to her home town, and taught for one year before moving on to bigger and better things. She began her tenure at ACUSD #11 in 1982 as middle school choral director and AHS Musical Choreographer. She is instrumental in instituting the “honors/lab choirs” for the ACUSD. When time permits, she instructs private voice in her home and sings professionally.

Bev is a long-time member of MENC, Phi Kappa Phi, NATS, and ACDA. In addition, she is a “Who’s Who in American Women Educators” and “Who’s Who in American Music Educators”. She has been actively involved with IMEA for many years, and has served as District IMEA Choral Jr. High Chair and conductor.

Bev and her husband, Kent, reside in their hometown of Staunton, Illinois. (She and her husband were members of the Staunton Marching Bulldog All-Brass Band under the direction of Marshall Cloyd during high school.) They have two children, Jason Kramer (wife Melissa) of Boston, and Jennifer Haislar (husband Ryan) of Maryville.

When asked, “why do you teach music?”…I reply, “I want to share my lifelong love of music with those that appreciate it. I feel as though this is my “purpose in life”. I often wonder, if I had a former life….what was my vocation? I can’t imagine doing anything else. To me…..music is passionate and soulful. Music is a language. Musicians are unique, and we are all bound together ….like “family”.

Contact Information for Mrs. Kramer:

Phone:  (618) 474-6918  (Direct Line)

Email:  bkramer@altonschools.org