This session is a double block! 1:00 PM - 2:50 PM
Whether you are new to the profession or seeking a new role, interviews can be both exciting and stressful. Conducted by Sarah Brown and Mike Mangonon, this session offers music educators and aspiring administrators practical strategies to rehearse for interviews. Drawing from real-world experiences on both sides of the interview table, participants will explore common questions, effective responses, and best practices tailored to arts and music roles. You will also engage in mock interview activities and receive supportive feedback in a low-stakes, high-growth environment. Walk away with tools—and the confidence—to rehearse your interview.
Target Audience
Music educators new to the profession or seeking a new role. College students, credential candidates, current music educators, and aspiring administrators.
Additional Notes
Clinician Info
Sarah Brown
Sarah Brown serves as the Arts & PE Program Specialist for San Juan Unified School District in Sacramento County. With 18 years of experience in public education, she brings a diverse background in music education, educational technology, and instructional leadership. Sarah holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance and Music Education, as well as a Master’s in Educational Technology.
Before transitioning to administration, Sarah taught elementary general music, elementary band, and middle school band. She is currently President-Elect of the CMEA Capitol Section and was honored with the Outstanding Elementary Music Educator Award in 2024. From 2009 to 2014, she served as the Elementary Music Representative for the section.
Sarah is motivated to make a positive and joyful impact on the students and educators she serves. Outside of her professional role, she is an active clarinetist with the Sierra Nevada Winds, a symphonic wind ensemble. She also enjoys outdoor activities and adventures with family and friends.
Mike Mangonon
Mike Mangonon is a Curriculum Specialist on the Arts Education Team with the Elk Grove Unified School District (EGUSD). Mike brings his 16 years of experience in EGUSD to the central office to support music and arts educators and their programs/curriculum for all students TK-12 across the district. Mike also serves as the President for the Capitol Section of the California Music Educators Association (CMEA-CS), along with being a Commissioner for the Elk Grove City Arts and Creative Economy Commission. His involvement in educational, professional, and city leadership allows him to pursue his passion for finding ways for all three groups to connect and collaborate for the advancement of Arts and Arts Education.
Prior to his current post, Mike was the founding music director at both Cosumnes Oaks High School and Elizabeth Pinkerton Middle School (est. 2008) and eventually grew the department into the multifaceted programs they have today including multiple choirs and concert bands, jazz bands, orchestra, and general music & AP Music. It was during this time that Mike was named “Outstanding Band Educator of the Year” by the CMEA-CS in 2020, and was invited to be the CMEA-CS Middle School Honor Band Conductor for 2023. Mike is honored and thrilled to be invited back to guest conduct at the Cazadero Performing Arts Camp in 2025!
Recently earning his Administrative Services Credential through the Sacramento County Office of Education Leadership Institute, Mike also holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the Florida State University, and a Master of Music degree from the Peabody Conservatory of Music. An avid performer, Mike currently holds the 2nd trombone post with the Auburn Symphony Orchestra, and subs with the Folsom Lake Symphony Orchestra. Mike currently resides in Elk Grove, CA with his wife and fellow music educator, Jaime Mangonon, and enjoys FaceTiming his three grown children, John, Ben, and Catie.