About
Delynne West began her career in 1992 teaching grades K - 7 at various schools in
the Bryant Public School district, but has considered Springhill Elementary her home
since 1995. As an active elementary music specialist, she has been a cooperating teacher
for OBU Music Education student interns since 2013. She joined Ouachita as an Adjunct
Instructor in 2019, teaching Elementary Music Methods and Introduction to Music Education.
Mrs. West actively improves her craft by attending conferences and earning various
certifications. She served on the board of the Arkansas Music Education Association
for 10 years as a Region Chair and Secretary, and has been a facilitator for the UA
Little Rock National Board Support Center since 2006, working with countless educators
earning National Board Certification. She is also a frequent facilitator for Bryant
Music Specialist workshops.
The West family includes her husband John and two daughters, Madelynne and Veronica
(class of 2024). They enjoy traveling and spending time with their “dance family”
by attending Country Western Dance events.
Fun Facts
What do you like most about your field?
The best part of my job is watching students learn how to create and express their
ideas. Since I taught K-5 I was blessed to see many students grow during childhood.
At Ouachita I am afforded that same blessing as I work with students following their
education journey.
Why did you enter your profession?
Music connects me to my most important relationships. I want others to enjoy making
music, moving to music, being inspired by music, and creating relationships through
music. Ouachita education programs meet that goal as they focus on building relationships
to foster significant learning.
What is a favorite moment of working with students at Ouachita?
I love watching students grow as musicians and share their faith through music and
teaching others. When I observe Aspiring Teachers in the field, seeing their passions
ignite while working with new students is always fulfilling.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I love to create through sewing. After retiring from public schools,
I have had time to renew my love for music through playing piano and vocalizing and
I am enjoying just playing for fun!
What is your favorite place on campus and why?
JPAC. So many varied experiences occur here that feed my soul.
What would you want a prospective student to know about your program or your administrative
area?
Education is rapidly changing. While change is scary, it is exciting! If you are musically
inclined, there is nothing more rewarding than working with young musicians finding
their path. The best place to be in a school is where kids are allowed to creatively
express themselves while helping to guide their path.
Areas of Expertise
Featured Courses Taught:
- Elementary Music Methods
- K-12 Music Practicum
- Elementary Arts Integration Director of Harmonia Nova (Ouachita Community Arts Program)
Featured Publications/Presentations:
Certifications:
- National Board Certified Teacher since 2005
- Master Professional Educator (AR Department of Education)
- Orff Levels I, II, III, Masterclass
- World Music Drumming
- First Steps in Music
- Conversational Solfege Levels 1 and 2
- Google Certified Educator Levels 1 and 2
- Apple Teacher
- Apple Learning Coach
Involvement
- Arkansas Music Educators Association
- National Association for Music Education
- Feierabend Association for Music Educators
- American Orff-Schulwerk Association
- Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church
