Principal’s Corner by Nick Sofio

 

During the month of February, students across the country celebrated their love of reading as a part of I Love to Read Month. At Lakeview, our students participated in a number of fun and engaging activities that highlight books, authors and the love of reading.

The month of March, however, is recognized as Music in Our Schools Month. In support of Music in our Schools Month, our music teacher Brooke May planned a number of ways for us to celebrate our musical spirit this month.

A special book display has been set up in our media center to highlight picture books shared with students during music class as well as books with a musical focus. New to us this year is our March Music Madness competition. Each day our students vote between two songs of the same genre, narrowing it down until a champion song is crowned. Finally, we will hold our second annual Family Folk Dance Night on March 28. Family Folk Dance Night is an opportunity for our Lakeview families to come together for an evening of music and movement through learning some new dances.

At the elementary level in Albert Lea, music is a crucial piece to a well-rounded educational experience for our students. Students from kindergarten through fifth grade actively engage in their music instruction. Music in our schools affords an opportunity for our students to be exposed to a wide variety of musical genres, develop an understanding of musical concepts, apply gross and fine motor skills, and perform in front of small and large audiences.

The foundation of musicianship is also established at the elementary level. Students learn about and develop the skill of singing. In addition, students are provided an opportunity to learn how to play the xylophone, percussion instruments, the recorder and the ukulele. We are also very proud of the partnership that has been established with the Albert Lea High School music department through the visits of the ALHS band, show choir and orchestra to our elementary schools.

Although we highlight music during the month of March through Music in Our Schools Month, music is celebrated throughout the year at Lakeview.

Nick Sofio is the principal of Lakeview Elementary School. Lakeview Elementary School music teacher Brooke May contributed to this column.