The Harmonious Journeys
Teacher: Tania Yasmin Turner
School: Eisenhower Elementary School
Amount: $1,000.00
Category:
My name is Tania Yasmin Turner and I am a passionate music teacher at Eisenhower Elementary School. I applied for a grant last year and I was one of the lucky winners.
The Harmonious Journeys is a project that aims to integrate xylophones and handbells into the elementary music curriculum utilizing the Orff approach.
In our music classes, we have used handbells and soprano xylophones to engage students from kindergarten to 5th grade in a hands-on, creative learning experience. By incorporating these instruments, students not only have developed a sense of rhythm and melody but also have enhanced their listening skills, teamwork, and coordination. These activities helped improve focus, memory, and problem-solving abilities, which positively impact academic achievement in other subjects as well. The musical exercises have promoted a fun and interactive environment where students built confidence and collaboration skills, fostering a deeper connection to their overall learning journey.
The grant has significantly enhanced our music program by providing students with the opportunity to explore soprano xylophones and handbells, enriching their musical education. With the addition of soprano, alto, and bass xylophones, our students were able to experience a broader range of sounds, deepening their understanding of music theory and instrument diversity. This has not only motivated them to engage more in class but also contributed to their academic success, as the skills learned in music often transfer to improved focus and problem-solving in other subjects. Moving forward, we are excited to continue applying for grants to expand our collection of xylophones, allowing us to offer even more musical opportunities and further enrich our students’ educational experiences.
THANK YOU LAWTON PUBLIC SCHOOL FOUNDATION!