Is it really January in the Midwest? It was close to 50 degrees in Chicago again. Since I don't have any prior teaching experience, I can't say for sure if this weather is messing with the students, but I'm pretty sure it is. Or it could be the recent full moon that seemed to make everyone bonkers. Or it could be the fact that they've been on break for almost 2 weeks, probably playing video games, sleeping in, and not really having any responsibilities...coming back to school off a long break is brutal. The kids are so crazy and wound up. If I could only give them all a knock to the head and say, "HELLO!!! YOU ARE BACK AT SCHOOL!! THAT SHIT AIN'T GONNA FLY HERE!! GET IT TOGETHER MAN!! Of course, that type of punishment is illegal in Illinois ( whoever decided that was not in education...let me tell you) but I've tried to be patient and understand that the students need time to re-adjust.
This week has already been a million times more productive than last. I've had fairly successful classes so far. However, tomorrow is my beloved 8th grade classes. I just don't understand what will motivate them. I've offered them a phenomenal field trip opportunity to a state-of-the-art studio, an opportunity to meet a sound engineer/producer who has Grammys, and a day off school!! How does this not get something to click in their head? Like, "Hey, all we need to do is learn part of 'Don't Stop Believing'? One of the greatest songs ever? That we begged to learn? Hell, I'll learn the song AND sing it while doing jumping jacks!!"
FYI: They do not think this way. They would rather sit and 'mope' or goof off during warm-ups...warm-ups that 'allow' them to act goofy...it just does not make sense. I swear the day I meet someone who has figured out the adolescent mind, I will bend down, kiss their feet, and beg for insight.
On the other hand, as much as I want to throw in the towel with this level, I just can't. I've been able to connect with every other grade. I have to figure out a way to connect with the 8th grade. They need me the most. After the debacle last week, I ended up completely changing my lesson plan on the spur of the moment. Once I gave them requirements for the summary they needed to write, they were fine. I don't want them to do 'busy work' all the time. I want them to sing damnit!!! Please hear me loud and clear when I say, if you have any suggestions, I am all ears!!
Ok...so to give you something to chuckle at...yesterday was one of the toughest days this school year to get through...call it the full moon or pms or personal problems or lack of sleep or lack of nutrition...whatever the case, when lunchtime came, I locked myself in my room and sat there in the dark in silence praying that God would give me the strength to get through the afternoon. SO, my last classes were Kindergarten and 2nd grades. You may think these grades would be so simple and easy to teach. They are. If you are fine with stopping every 2 seconds to correct behavior or stop a kid from going on a random tangent about their dog or mom or the sidewalk outside and "why are there cracks in it"...blah blah blah. Trust me, it is the cutest thing but not when you are just trying to maintain your own sanity...so anyways, the first K class walks in, notices the movie screen is down, and immediately asks if we are watching videos. I had not necessarily planned on this...I hadn't planned on anything...but one student said something about watching videos from other countries. I'm not sure why, but you may refer to my previous statements about their randomness. A light went off in my head. "YES! We are listening and watching videos of music from other countries and your job is to listen, watch, and try to figure out what country this music is from!" By the way, I cannot take any credit for that idea at that time, God really does have angels watching over us...but it was brilliant! They LOVED it!! And I was surprised at how many countries they guessed correctly! Of course I did the exact thing with the 2nd grades and they also loved it!
I feel like a schmuck for admitting that but sometimes in this profession, I'm learning that I need to listen to the students "small talk", consider it, and adapt their ideas/thoughts into my lessons. Oh! Back to the 8th grade, one student suggested I play techno music while they are walking in to 'pump them up'. I will be doing this tomorrow so stayed tuned to hear about that one! I will try again to get them to sing. Pray for us.
The more I feel grounded in my faith, the more I am reassured and convinced that our higher power, God, is alive and well. He wants so much to be a part of our lives. He is always available, always willing to listen, and many times, he responds. This has become so apparent to me and I am so thankful that I have once again reaffirmed my faith. I encourage everyone who reads this blog (thank you) to reach out when you are having difficulties. When you think there is no one, there is. All you have to do is start talking (aka praying) and I promise your prayers will be answered in one way or another.
My experience is that prayers are answered in the most beautiful ways. These last few days have once again shown me that we are not alone. EVER. I've realized many things through this past year: 1. We cannot accomplish anything alone. 2. If we do not want to change we won't. 3. I have the most amazing friends and family I could ever dream of. 4. People are truly compassionate even in this messed up world. 5. The things and people you surround yourself with have such a huge impact on who you are and will become. 6. My dad. I love him so much and cannot begin to describe how amazing and beautiful he is. 7. Each day is a new opportunity to change, grow, and learn. 8. This world truly is spectacular and full of opportunity. 9. True Love isn't dead. 10. Those of you who continue to follow my journey give me great encouragement even if we do not communicate regularly.Thank you.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Christmas Break!!
First of all, I'd like to say Happy Holidays to all and thank you so much for your support in reading this blog. I've had a few people ask me when I will post again: I appreciate the enthusiasm. It's been quite a hectic few weeks, that's for sure. I had a lovely Christmas in Wisconsin with my family, extended family, and DA PACK!
Prior to that, the last 2 weeks of school went as follows:
Call from Principal 2.5 weeks away from Christmas...excuse me..."Advent Prayer Service"..."Stacy, hi, just wanted to see how the music was coming. I'm getting phone calls from parents who are concerned that their child doesn't have their music for the play"...
Me: "Well, that's not true. I have picked out music and started working on it, but the other teachers are adamant on a few songs from last year that I don't have."
Him: "Well, you have to understand that this is a HUGE deal in our school and parish. Basically, everything stops for this program. So, if you need to cancel lessons and music classes, that's what you need to do."
Me: "OK, well we have a rehearsal schedule and everything is going to be fabulous but I understand your concern."
Him: "Great! Just checking."
....The program WAS fabulous. If grades were learning harmony, playing instruments, or something more difficult than singing music in unison, I would've been worried. But the amazing thing about kids is that they soak everything up. First grade learned their songs within 2 class periods (60 min) total. Every grade did a phenomenal job. There were many compliments passed and I was so proud of my students! The older girls really stepped up and sounded the best I've heard them so far. We also acquired 2-3 more students for choir/glee club. Things really went well. However, there were lessons learned:
1. Start Christmas music before Thanksgiving (no matter how weird it seems)
2. Try to schedule WAY ahead of time (so people stay off my back)
3. Start music earlier=more difficult music!! (my goal for next year)
Everything in this position is a learning experience. That's why I love it. The students teach me so much and I only hope it's reciprocated. I've been planning the curriculum for the Spring and things seem like they are falling into place....in my head. Of course nothing in this job is set. It is a constant adaptation of elements. Again...a reason I love it. Another reason: being on break right now!!! It's the perfect time to rejuvenate, hang out with friends and family, and be merry!
I am really excited to spend NYE in Marathon with a certain dashing gentleman, my family, sister, and friends! How fun! I hope all of you have a wonderful new year and I promise to write more often!!
Prior to that, the last 2 weeks of school went as follows:
Call from Principal 2.5 weeks away from Christmas...excuse me..."Advent Prayer Service"..."Stacy, hi, just wanted to see how the music was coming. I'm getting phone calls from parents who are concerned that their child doesn't have their music for the play"...
Me: "Well, that's not true. I have picked out music and started working on it, but the other teachers are adamant on a few songs from last year that I don't have."
Him: "Well, you have to understand that this is a HUGE deal in our school and parish. Basically, everything stops for this program. So, if you need to cancel lessons and music classes, that's what you need to do."
Me: "OK, well we have a rehearsal schedule and everything is going to be fabulous but I understand your concern."
Him: "Great! Just checking."
....The program WAS fabulous. If grades were learning harmony, playing instruments, or something more difficult than singing music in unison, I would've been worried. But the amazing thing about kids is that they soak everything up. First grade learned their songs within 2 class periods (60 min) total. Every grade did a phenomenal job. There were many compliments passed and I was so proud of my students! The older girls really stepped up and sounded the best I've heard them so far. We also acquired 2-3 more students for choir/glee club. Things really went well. However, there were lessons learned:
1. Start Christmas music before Thanksgiving (no matter how weird it seems)
2. Try to schedule WAY ahead of time (so people stay off my back)
3. Start music earlier=more difficult music!! (my goal for next year)
Everything in this position is a learning experience. That's why I love it. The students teach me so much and I only hope it's reciprocated. I've been planning the curriculum for the Spring and things seem like they are falling into place....in my head. Of course nothing in this job is set. It is a constant adaptation of elements. Again...a reason I love it. Another reason: being on break right now!!! It's the perfect time to rejuvenate, hang out with friends and family, and be merry!
I am really excited to spend NYE in Marathon with a certain dashing gentleman, my family, sister, and friends! How fun! I hope all of you have a wonderful new year and I promise to write more often!!
Saturday, November 12, 2011
I'm done counting weeks
This Friday was the end of the first trimester. I made it through one. It sure hasn't been a smooth ride. However, it has been extremely rewarding. I've learned so much and have somuch more to learn. Let me give you break-down of what's been going on:
5th and 6th grades are working on the "Soundtrack of Your Life" project. It's so funny. They pick 6 songs and write why they chose them. Then they make a CD case showcasing their songs. It's a really cool activity. It's really interesting to read why the students chose certain songs.
The 8th grade will begin the task of learning "Don't Stop Believing" this coming week. The arrangement I chose is NOT easy but it's the only one that actually sounds cool. If they don't get on the wagon with this, they will not be going on the field trip. It's that simple.
3rd and 4th grade started learning the recorder. The 3rd grade was so excited to actually have their very own instrument. They are pumped and so am I.
On Friday for my resource period, I only had the 3rd grade since 4th was on a field trip. We had a dance party. I put pandora.com on to the 'Britney Spears' station. Of course the songs that pop up are the songs they listen to on the radio. I only needed to skip a few of them. At the build up of a song by Rhianna, I went to the lights and flicked them like a 'club'. They LOVED it! They were all screaming and dancing around like maniacs. It was hilarious. Next purchase for my room will be a disco ball. They told their teachers it was the 'best Friday ever!!' It really was! So cute and fun.
I'm a little nervous about grades since I know I will be hearing from parents. Hopefully, I will be able to handle them with some sort of confidence and grace. We shall see.
I am excited for Thanksgiving break. If you haven't figured out by now, teaching is NOT easy! I wouldn't trade it for the world though.
5th and 6th grades are working on the "Soundtrack of Your Life" project. It's so funny. They pick 6 songs and write why they chose them. Then they make a CD case showcasing their songs. It's a really cool activity. It's really interesting to read why the students chose certain songs.
The 8th grade will begin the task of learning "Don't Stop Believing" this coming week. The arrangement I chose is NOT easy but it's the only one that actually sounds cool. If they don't get on the wagon with this, they will not be going on the field trip. It's that simple.
3rd and 4th grade started learning the recorder. The 3rd grade was so excited to actually have their very own instrument. They are pumped and so am I.
On Friday for my resource period, I only had the 3rd grade since 4th was on a field trip. We had a dance party. I put pandora.com on to the 'Britney Spears' station. Of course the songs that pop up are the songs they listen to on the radio. I only needed to skip a few of them. At the build up of a song by Rhianna, I went to the lights and flicked them like a 'club'. They LOVED it! They were all screaming and dancing around like maniacs. It was hilarious. Next purchase for my room will be a disco ball. They told their teachers it was the 'best Friday ever!!' It really was! So cute and fun.
I'm a little nervous about grades since I know I will be hearing from parents. Hopefully, I will be able to handle them with some sort of confidence and grace. We shall see.
I am excited for Thanksgiving break. If you haven't figured out by now, teaching is NOT easy! I wouldn't trade it for the world though.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Today was a good day...
After 3 weeks of 'break down after students leave' Tuesdays, today was finally a good day. I think 5th grade is finally on board.
Today was the first day of "Glee Club". Six 7th grade girls with beautiful voices. Our first song is
"Let It Be" by the Beatles. I am re-arranging the score a bit to accomodate 3 part harmony. So excited! None of the girls have sang 3 part harmony yet but they are very enthusiastic.
Cute story: One of the glee members has a sister in 4th grade. She told me her sister has been practicing yoga everyday at home in the basement. She even has her brother doing it. Supposedly, this little girl opened a 'yoga studio' in her basement!! HOW AWESOME!
Another cute story: I decorated my room as previously mentioned. After a few more purchases, my room was debuted today. The students love it! I went with the scary, spooky theme. Cobwebs everywhere, skulls (glitter, light up, big and small), tombstones, a body outline with a syringe and a brain next to it, black roses, and a heart organ...hahaha. It was so funny. The kindergarten didn't know what to think, poking and prodding everything, the middle grades thought it was cool, the older grades were enthralled. Student, "Miss Courchaine! You really love holidays!" Me, "I did all of this for you! Because I thought you might like it."
You know, a lot of my students have been asking me a very interesting question, "Why did you give up your dream/performing to be a teacher HERE??" It's hard to explain to them how life works. How we are given many paths to choose. How our path is unique to each of us. It's hard to explain life to those who are just starting to live. I want to be clear. I did not in any way give up on my dream. I think I've accomplished quite a bit. I've recorded a CD of original music, performed in Chicago, have taught music to multiple ages, and hopefully inspired a few people along the way.
I know I created this, but I know I did not accomplish it alone. I've always had the support of my family. Always. I love my family dearly. Each person is so unique and inspiring. I'm also blessed to have the best guardian angel a girl could ask for. Love you bro. 10/16/03
Today was the first day of "Glee Club". Six 7th grade girls with beautiful voices. Our first song is
"Let It Be" by the Beatles. I am re-arranging the score a bit to accomodate 3 part harmony. So excited! None of the girls have sang 3 part harmony yet but they are very enthusiastic.
Cute story: One of the glee members has a sister in 4th grade. She told me her sister has been practicing yoga everyday at home in the basement. She even has her brother doing it. Supposedly, this little girl opened a 'yoga studio' in her basement!! HOW AWESOME!
Another cute story: I decorated my room as previously mentioned. After a few more purchases, my room was debuted today. The students love it! I went with the scary, spooky theme. Cobwebs everywhere, skulls (glitter, light up, big and small), tombstones, a body outline with a syringe and a brain next to it, black roses, and a heart organ...hahaha. It was so funny. The kindergarten didn't know what to think, poking and prodding everything, the middle grades thought it was cool, the older grades were enthralled. Student, "Miss Courchaine! You really love holidays!" Me, "I did all of this for you! Because I thought you might like it."
You know, a lot of my students have been asking me a very interesting question, "Why did you give up your dream/performing to be a teacher HERE??" It's hard to explain to them how life works. How we are given many paths to choose. How our path is unique to each of us. It's hard to explain life to those who are just starting to live. I want to be clear. I did not in any way give up on my dream. I think I've accomplished quite a bit. I've recorded a CD of original music, performed in Chicago, have taught music to multiple ages, and hopefully inspired a few people along the way.
I know I created this, but I know I did not accomplish it alone. I've always had the support of my family. Always. I love my family dearly. Each person is so unique and inspiring. I'm also blessed to have the best guardian angel a girl could ask for. Love you bro. 10/16/03
Monday, October 24, 2011
Halloween Extravaganza!!
Because last week was SOO up and down, I did not feel the urge to write. Better to ride the wave...
This week in music is "HALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZA!!!!" What this means exactly, I'm not even sure. I just made it up to get the kids excited about Music and Halloween=Musicween?? Anyways, I decorated my room today. It's full of cobwebs...and spooky stuff. It should be fun. I have a large stash of candy and prizes for the winners of 'music bingo'. Not to say that there won't be some ass whooping in a few classes...
First off, 5th grade. They're gettin' a shake-down tomorrow performed by the principal and myself. They need to be reminded of who is in charge and where they are. Business attire? I think I shall.
This week in music is "HALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZA!!!!" What this means exactly, I'm not even sure. I just made it up to get the kids excited about Music and Halloween=Musicween?? Anyways, I decorated my room today. It's full of cobwebs...and spooky stuff. It should be fun. I have a large stash of candy and prizes for the winners of 'music bingo'. Not to say that there won't be some ass whooping in a few classes...
First off, 5th grade. They're gettin' a shake-down tomorrow performed by the principal and myself. They need to be reminded of who is in charge and where they are. Business attire? I think I shall.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Whoa! Week 9
Time sure flies when you're havin' fun! Or have Columbus Day off, can't get back in the groove, then travel to Wisco and finally take out the trash...that was last week/weekend. But. I am finally settled back in my newly clean apartment, fridge stocked, and ready to rock. This week is the FORM quiz for grades 5-8. It will be interesting since they still have a difficult time understanding that they receive a grade. I will also be handing back graded assignments. I have to wonder, "Why would a music TEACHER not require assignments or grades in music class?" This seems to have been the case, and let me tell ya right now folks, that ain't the case no more. Yes you will be graded on 'assignments'. Yes I do record them in the grade book. Yes your music class grade affects your GPA...HELLO?!!
OK, now on to the next unit. MELODY. Yes, it's about time these kids sing. We will be learning the ever helpful Solfege method. Their task? Teach the class a song using solfege. The younger grades move on to the recorder. Don't worry, earplugs are in the mail...
Now for the reflective portion...I was working at my computer today and the principal walked in with a dude. They asked where I'd like a flat screen because all classrooms will eventually have them. This made me very happy. What made me not so happy was when my principal said, "Well, maybe we shouldn't put one in here because you will have your room set up and then be gone." Me: "What?" Him: "Well, you will probably leave us for a better offer." Me thinking in my head: "I understand why you said that (cause I'm SOOO awesome), but please give me a chance and trust that I don't start something I can't finish." At this point, I can't imagine going to another school. I'm just getting started. This school needs me! And I need them. This school will allow me to teach and learn to teach music to a Large group of students. This job allows me to teach private lessons and gain experience with one-on-one interaction. This job allows me to sing and worship on a regular basis. Now, I'm not saying anything for sure, but I think I've got a good thing going and I'm not about to think of quitting or moving on now!
OK, now on to the next unit. MELODY. Yes, it's about time these kids sing. We will be learning the ever helpful Solfege method. Their task? Teach the class a song using solfege. The younger grades move on to the recorder. Don't worry, earplugs are in the mail...
Now for the reflective portion...I was working at my computer today and the principal walked in with a dude. They asked where I'd like a flat screen because all classrooms will eventually have them. This made me very happy. What made me not so happy was when my principal said, "Well, maybe we shouldn't put one in here because you will have your room set up and then be gone." Me: "What?" Him: "Well, you will probably leave us for a better offer." Me thinking in my head: "I understand why you said that (cause I'm SOOO awesome), but please give me a chance and trust that I don't start something I can't finish." At this point, I can't imagine going to another school. I'm just getting started. This school needs me! And I need them. This school will allow me to teach and learn to teach music to a Large group of students. This job allows me to teach private lessons and gain experience with one-on-one interaction. This job allows me to sing and worship on a regular basis. Now, I'm not saying anything for sure, but I think I've got a good thing going and I'm not about to think of quitting or moving on now!
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Week 7
As I've mentioned previously, my resource period of 40+ students practices yoga on Mondays. I downloaded some cool tribal music to get into our zen. I also started sending emails to local yoga studios in hopes of getting mats donated. Well, we are on our way to getting mats for each student! The studio I practice at has 4 locations and the owner emailed me back and said they have a bunch of mats for me to have...yes, have. I am so pumped and I think the students will really start to take it more seriously. It's so funny watching them try these poses hopping around and asking me, "Miss Courchaine!! Am I doing it right??" They aren't too shabby either. It's really cute.
This week the 6th and 7th grade handed in lyrics to a song for our unit on Form. We began with looking at verse-chorus form which is standard in contemporary music. Their job was to print out a song and label it...we went through the guidelines...what was appropriate or not, etc. Yet, I still got lyrics that had swear words, racial slurs, songs talking about having sex, booty, drinking, drugs...you get the picture. So, I compiled my "favorite lines" from these songs and read my compilation to each class. Of course I was very dramatic and tried to read these lines with gusto and poetic rhythm. Almost with a Bill Cosby flavor, "I got passion...in my pants. Girl....shake your...booty." At first some students couldn't help laughing, but by the time I was reading a lyric that had the 'n' word in it, their eyes were popping out of their heads and they were actually blushing. I threw them all away and told them to start over. We went through each detail very carefully several times of what is appropriate and what isn't. I HOPE that they proof-read like we discussed because if anyone still hands something of poor taste in, it is an immediate conference with them, their parents, and the principal.
Sometimes it amazes me how badly behaved these kids are. I mean, I understand it's grade school, but this community of students is really bad! I don't know when they are going to learn and it is unfortunate that the school does not have a better back-up system for discipline. There is a discipline code, but it's out of date and not able to be used properly. Very frustrating.
On to a more uplifting note. I sang for the masses on Sunday morning. This was done on minimal sleep (hey, I have to have some sort of social/dating life right?!) but I woke up anyways and got it done. There were many students and their families at church. It was so cute when they saw me because they just gave a huge smile and wave hi. Of course I smiled and waved back! It's so funny how the Catholic church is so serious that a kid feels it's wrong to even wave or smile or LOOK at someone else...anyways, after the last mass, some of my piano students and their moms were outside so I said hello. The moms were very nice and praised my singing. thank you. Here's the best part: As I walking away, I overheard one of the moms say, "Isn't she just lovely? She is so lovely." That has to be one of the most touching compliments a mom of a student could say, or anyone for that matter! It really gave me a sense of pride and acknowledgement that I must be doing something right. If I were described as anything, I only wished it would be that kind. How blessed am I?
The 8th grade has really been coming around after I shared the field trip opportunity. The way the 6th and 7th grade have been behaving, I really think it's going to be the 8th grade that I take. They REALLY want to go and have already changed their behavior in lieu of this opportunity. I was surprised when I told the 7th grade about it and how it was between them and 8th grade, that one student said I should just take the 8th grade cause it's their last year and the 7th grade could go next year. He didn't want the 8th grade 'missing out'. I thought that was really thoughtful and nice. Anyways, my principal is pumped about it and completely backing me. Yay!
I also finally got the piano in my classroom tuned!!! Just like I did as a kid, I spent a few hours playing all the music I have at school. It's a really great piano and I'm getting used to the feel of it. My piano students are also very thankful...How can you really play piano with the A below Middle C note sticking?? You can't. My students have really been doing well this week with the piano. I can tell they are practicing more. I will be picking up 2 more students soon...where will they fit in?? OH, didn't you know that you can summon extra hours out of the day if you need them? Just kidding, I will work it out. I'm just excited that so many students are interested in music. I love my job!!
This week the 6th and 7th grade handed in lyrics to a song for our unit on Form. We began with looking at verse-chorus form which is standard in contemporary music. Their job was to print out a song and label it...we went through the guidelines...what was appropriate or not, etc. Yet, I still got lyrics that had swear words, racial slurs, songs talking about having sex, booty, drinking, drugs...you get the picture. So, I compiled my "favorite lines" from these songs and read my compilation to each class. Of course I was very dramatic and tried to read these lines with gusto and poetic rhythm. Almost with a Bill Cosby flavor, "I got passion...in my pants. Girl....shake your...booty." At first some students couldn't help laughing, but by the time I was reading a lyric that had the 'n' word in it, their eyes were popping out of their heads and they were actually blushing. I threw them all away and told them to start over. We went through each detail very carefully several times of what is appropriate and what isn't. I HOPE that they proof-read like we discussed because if anyone still hands something of poor taste in, it is an immediate conference with them, their parents, and the principal.
Sometimes it amazes me how badly behaved these kids are. I mean, I understand it's grade school, but this community of students is really bad! I don't know when they are going to learn and it is unfortunate that the school does not have a better back-up system for discipline. There is a discipline code, but it's out of date and not able to be used properly. Very frustrating.
On to a more uplifting note. I sang for the masses on Sunday morning. This was done on minimal sleep (hey, I have to have some sort of social/dating life right?!) but I woke up anyways and got it done. There were many students and their families at church. It was so cute when they saw me because they just gave a huge smile and wave hi. Of course I smiled and waved back! It's so funny how the Catholic church is so serious that a kid feels it's wrong to even wave or smile or LOOK at someone else...anyways, after the last mass, some of my piano students and their moms were outside so I said hello. The moms were very nice and praised my singing. thank you. Here's the best part: As I walking away, I overheard one of the moms say, "Isn't she just lovely? She is so lovely." That has to be one of the most touching compliments a mom of a student could say, or anyone for that matter! It really gave me a sense of pride and acknowledgement that I must be doing something right. If I were described as anything, I only wished it would be that kind. How blessed am I?
The 8th grade has really been coming around after I shared the field trip opportunity. The way the 6th and 7th grade have been behaving, I really think it's going to be the 8th grade that I take. They REALLY want to go and have already changed their behavior in lieu of this opportunity. I was surprised when I told the 7th grade about it and how it was between them and 8th grade, that one student said I should just take the 8th grade cause it's their last year and the 7th grade could go next year. He didn't want the 8th grade 'missing out'. I thought that was really thoughtful and nice. Anyways, my principal is pumped about it and completely backing me. Yay!
I also finally got the piano in my classroom tuned!!! Just like I did as a kid, I spent a few hours playing all the music I have at school. It's a really great piano and I'm getting used to the feel of it. My piano students are also very thankful...How can you really play piano with the A below Middle C note sticking?? You can't. My students have really been doing well this week with the piano. I can tell they are practicing more. I will be picking up 2 more students soon...where will they fit in?? OH, didn't you know that you can summon extra hours out of the day if you need them? Just kidding, I will work it out. I'm just excited that so many students are interested in music. I love my job!!
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