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Welcome to Mrs. Phillips' website!

Welcome to the 2021-22 school year!

I am the music teacher for all kindergarten classes at Albertville Primary School. I also teach the following first grade classes at Big Woods Elementary School: Mrs. Childs, Mrs. Christensen, and Mrs. Holtz.

My philosophy for music education at the primary level is that children learn best through play. Students will learn how to use their four voices - speaking, calling, whispering, and singing - with a heavy emphasis on exploring the singing voice. Students will learn how to listen critically to music through movement and creative dance. Students will learn how to move to the beat using stationary and locomotor movements. Students will learn how to read and perform basic rhythmic notations including ta (quarter note); ti-ti (eighth notes); and quarter rests. Additionally, students will learn about the four families of instruments in the orchestra and about specific instruments and their sounds. All of these skills will be acquired through games, fun activities, movement, playing instruments, and high-interest song material.

We will be exploring music from a wide variety of cultures and countries. Religious celebrations are a major part of most cultures from around the world. When discussing song material that mentions or deals with a religious celebration, I always strive to represent a balanced, unbiased perspective that is respectful of the pluralities of our own culture and those being studied. If you have specific concerns regarding the celebration of any holidays, please let me know so that I may make accommodations for your child(ren).

My philosophy also includes a strong commitment to individualizing instruction in order to meet the needs of all learners. If you ever have any concerns or questions, please feel free to contact me. I believe that working together as parents and teachers we can create the best possible education for your child(ren).

The STMA district philosophy in music is as follows:

The STMA Music Department will provide a comprehensive music education equipping students with the skills to become lifelong musicians. Students will develop an aesthetic sensitivity to music as listeners, performers, and creators.

The Albertville Primary philosophy:

Our mission is to lay the foundation of education, to inspire and help develop a love of learning that will last a lifetime!