In a profession known for long hours, high expectations, and constant comparison, it's easy to feel like you're falling short, especially if your resume doesn't include a state championship, a Midwest performance, or national recognition. But winning in this job isn't always about trophies or accolades.
In a heartfelt and honest session, Esmeralda Rocha Lozano will share how she's found sustainable joy and fulfillment in her music education career while being a mom of three, married for 18 years, and leading a thriving program. She'll redefine what success can look like through the lens of community, student impact, personal growth, and love for the activity. Whether you're just starting or feeling the weight of burnout, this session will give you tools and perspective to help you stay grounded, inspired, and in this career for the long haul.
Target Audience
all conference participants
Additional Notes
Clinician Info
Esmeralda M. Rocha Lozano
Mrs. Esmeralda M. Rocha Lozano is the Director of Instrumental Music at Clovis High School. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and a Master of Arts in Music Performance from California State University, Fresno, where she studied under Dr. Lawrence Sutherland, Dr. Gary P. Gilroy, and Dr. Teresa Beeman. Most recently, she completed the Bridges to Leadership PASC Program, an equity-driven leadership program designed to prepare educators for school administration. This experience has equipped her with the skills to foster inclusive learning environments and lead with a commitment to student success.
Since joining the Clovis Area Instrumental Music Team in 2000, Mrs. Rocha Lozano has been a dedicated educator, creating a welcoming, supportive space where students thrive. In 2007, she was appointed Head Director of the Clovis High School Instrumental Music Program and the Clovis High Area. In 2009, she founded the Clovis Music Academy, a non-profit organization that nurtures elementary students through the arts. As Department Chair and PLC Lead, she mentors educators and music ensembles, ensuring a strong foundation for young musicians.
Mrs. Rocha Lozano’s leadership extends across multiple ensembles, including the Wind Ensemble, String Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, Golden Cougar Marching Band and Color Guard, and Winter Pageantry Ensembles. Under her direction, her ensembles consistently earn superior ratings at festivals and receive prestigious invitations to events such as the California All-State Music Educators Conference, the Pacific Basin Music Festival in Hawaii, and Carnegie Hall in New York.
The Golden Cougar Marching Band has earned multiple titles, including Western Band Association (WBA) Regional State Champions. Year after year, they consistently place in the top three of their division as State Finalists. Additionally, the Winter Pageantry Ensembles regularly advance as semi-finalists or finalists at the Winter Guard International (WGI) World Championships.
A passionate advocate for music education, Mrs. Rocha Lozano has served on various state and national music boards since 2005. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the Clovis Unified Crystal Award in Education, the California Music Education Association’s Richard L. Levin Orchestra Educator of the Year Award, the Counselor’s Choice Award for Educator of the Year at Clovis High School, the Certificate of Merit for Marching Excellence from the National Band Association, a Clovis High Yearbook dedication, and most recently, the Norm and Patti Moglia Bulldog Marching Band Alumni Award.
Despite her many professional achievements, her greatest joy is her family. She treasures her role as a wife to Benjamin Lozano and a mother to their three children: Evelyn Maree, Benjamin Paul, and Michael John.