The award-winning choir director at Nixa High School is now getting national attention.
Daniel Gutierrez , hired by Nixa Public Schools in 2018, has been named a semifinalist for the 2025 GRAMMY Music Educator Award.
He previously made it to the quarterfinalist round for the same recognition.
The Music Educator Award is a partnership between the GRAMMY Museum and The Recording Academy to recognize the contributions of those who teach music.
Gutierrez was selected from more than 2,400 nominations from 49 states. He is among 25 semifinalists representing 24 cities across 14 states.
The award is open to music teachers, from kindergarten through college, in both public and private schools, who make a remarkable impact on students’ lives.
Nominees must complete an application process and participate in multiple reviews by screening committees.
Up to 10 finalists will soon be selected and one winner will be honored ahead of the 2025 GRAMMY Awards on Feb. 2. The winner will receive a $10,000 honorarium along with a matching grant from their school. Other finalists will each receive a $1,000 honorarium and matching grant while remaining semifinalists will receive a $500 honorarium and the matching grant.