West Liberty University Alumnus Kyle Cook Named CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence

Photo Caption: West Liberty University alumnus Kyle Cook (third row back, first from left) joins fellow honorees at the Country Music Association Foundation’s 2026 Music Teachers of Excellence awards ceremony in Nashville, Tennessee, on October 7.
Photo Credit: CMA Foundation

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. —West Liberty University alumnus Kyle Cook, a 2013 graduate of the University’s Music Education program, has been recognized by the Country Music Association (CMA) Foundation as one of its 2026 Music Teachers of Excellence.

Cook, who serves as Director of Choirs at Western Branch Middle School in Chesapeake, Virginia, was among 30 music educators nationwide selected for the prestigious honor, which recognizes teachers who demonstrate excellence in music education and a commitment to enriching the lives of students and their communities.

“We are so proud of Kyle on receiving this tremendous honor! His enthusiasm for his students is what sets him apart as an educator. We are thrilled to watch him receive these accolades as he continues his career inspiring people through music. Kyle, we are incredibly proud of you!” said Dr. Matthew Harder, Chair of the Department of Music & Theatre at West Liberty University.

The CMA Foundation’s Music Teachers of Excellence program celebrates educators who provide high-quality music education and demonstrate leadership, innovation, and dedication to student success. Each honoree receives a $5,000 award, with half designated for classroom resources and the remaining half for personal use. The 2026 recipients were celebrated during an awards ceremony on October 7 in Nashville, Tennessee.

A native of Bellaire, Ohio, Cook earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from West Liberty University in 2013 and his Master’s Degree in Music Education from Ohio University in 2020.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities at Western Branch Middle School, Cook has served as Chairperson of the school’s Equity Council, a Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Coach, a New Teacher Mentor, and a member of the Schools to Watch committee. He has also served as the Virginia District IV Choral Representative and is a founding director of the school’s musical theater program.

Cook has served as Director of the Outer Banks Chorus since 2015. His career accomplishments include being named the 2021 Western Branch Middle School Teacher of the Year and recognition as a national semifinalist for the 2022 GRAMMY Music Educator Award.

The CMA Foundation’s Music Teachers of Excellence program, established in 2016, recognizes the important role music educators play in inspiring students and strengthening communities through music.

For more information about the CMA Foundation’s Music Teachers of Excellence program, visit cmafoundation.org.

For more information about Cook and his professional accomplishments, visit kylejacobcook.weebly.com.

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.

Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu