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“Music is a more potent instrument than any other for education because rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul.” - Plato
Plato’s observation is a great way to think about music education. Unfortunately, music education programs in elementary and secondary schools have seen a steady decline in support and participation for a very long time. Budget cuts, focusing on standardized testing, lack of resources, teacher shortages, lack of support due to misconceptions about the value of music education, lack of diversity within the programs, and the No Child Left Behind Act’s mandated reading and math have all contributed to the elimination or downsizing of music classes across the country. This has reduced access to music programs, negative impacts on student development, loss of cultural heritage elements, and teacher burnout.
Music education is such a valuable offering to our children. It’s been proven to improve cognitive skills, encourage creativity, and aid social-emotional development. Music is about heart and emotion; for some kids, it’s the only way to express themselves effectively.
The Lansing School District has seen this nationwide decline. It has implemented some fantastic programs over the years to help keep its district’s music education programs and students thriving.
At Cumberland Elementary, students are immersed in a hands-on music program that combines singing, movement, speech, and instrument playing. Thanks to over $45,000 in grants, the program has provided students with new instruments and supplies to enhance their learning experiences. These students are thriving creatively in a collaborative environment. Through these resources and an innovative teaching approach, Cumberland Elementary fosters a love of music and provides students with meaningful musical experiences.
Dwight Rich School of the Arts is a K-8 school focusing on technology-based learning and arts programming. Students use a unique “Artful Learning” model that integrates technology-based learning with arts programming. Their arts integration approach means that students engage in a creative process that connects an art form to their subject of study to enhance their understanding. This involves visual, performing, music, media, and communication arts. Through partnerships with The Kennedy Center, MSU’s Wharton Center, and other arts organizations, students can explore visual, performing, music, media, and communication arts in innovative ways.
Remember when the pandemic shrank high school bands and even eliminated many of their marching bands? Well, in Lansing, they’re back and better than ever. The marching bands, concert bands, and choirs are all back on track with their regular performance schedules, thanks to the unwavering support and innovative teaching approaches in Lansing schools. Thanks to their attentiveness and tenacity in bolstering these important programs, Lansing students are reaping all of the wonderful benefits of participating in an active music program.
Music education is not just about reading notes on a page. It’s about expressing oneself and connecting with others on a deeper level. So, if you value your child’s cognitive skills, creativity, and emotional development, consider enrolling them in the Lansing School District, whether you live in Lansing or arrive by school of choice. Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive through the power of music education.
