2 Chicago-area HS teachers honored with CMA Foundation's Music Teacher of Excellence award

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WLS) -- Two high school teachers from the Chicago area were honored Tuesday night with the CMA Foundation's Music Teacher of Excellence award.

Stephanie San Roman of Oswego High School and Justin Antos of Dwight D. Eisenhower High School in Blue Island were honored. Both teachers have received the award before.

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"I had such a fantastic experience, especially in my high school band program. It's kind of why I'm doing what I'm doing. I want to recreate those moments and those experiences for these students," San Roman previously said.

Thirty teachers from across the country received the award Tuesday night.

The event has taken place since 2016, honoring teachers each year from across the country, who go above and beyond to teach and inspire. Each teacher receives a $5000 grant to go toward their music programs and personal expenses.

"There's something about music, it really teaches us to be human," Antos previously said. "And I think if there's anything we need a little bit more of in the world is a little bit more humanity."

Country music stars were in attendance; some even performed. All were there to show their love and appreciation for music educators.

Alana Springsteen surprised one teacher with a brand new keyboard. It was at the top of the list of his classroom needs.