Music Program

Ms. Vargas, Mr. Poulan, and Mrs. Anaforian

Fort Washington believes that a fine arts education is essential for the development of the whole child. Our music program provides students with unique experiences that allow them to explore their passions, maximize their creativity and critical thinking skills, and learn valuable lessons about self-motivation, dedication and teamwork. 

Students in Grades 1-3 will receive one 30 minute music class per week that consists of singing, movement and playing simple instruments all designed to foster a life-long appreciation of music.

Students in 4th Grade will receive TWO 30-minute classes per week, one emphasizing choral music and one emphasizing instrumental music with the intent to help students discover their passion as they begin transitioning to 5th grade performing groups

Students in Grades 5-6 may choose to participate in choir, band or orchestra and receive two 45 minute classes per week. These outstanding ensembles offer students the chance to develop vocal and instrumental skills and perform at festivals and concerts throughout the school year. 

Stephanie Anaforian holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from California State University, Fresno, and a Master of Music in French Horn Performance from the University of Washington. She is certified in Orff Schulwerk Level 2 and has passionately taught a diverse range of music classes, from preschool special education to middle and high school band and orchestra, in Washington State and throughout California's Central Valley.

Since 2000, Mrs. Anaforian has served as an elementary music specialist in the Clovis Unified School District, where she thrives on the joy of introducing students to musical instruments, laying a solid foundation for their music education, and witnessing their growth as they transition to Kastner and Clovis West High School.

In her leisure time, Mrs. Anaforian enjoys visiting the beach, cooking, reading and spending time with her husband, Jason, their daughters Mia, Alex, Lauren, and Rachel, and their three dogs, Ellie, Kreacher, and Dobbie.

Ms. Vargas began her musical journey in 5th grade, an experience that sparked a lifelong love of music and inspired her to pass that same joy on to young students. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Music from CSU Fresno and has been teaching for six years. Her primary instrument is the flute, and she also performs mariachi music as a singer and violinist. Ms. Vargas is passionate about sharing the joy of music and loves seeing her students smile as they discover how fun and rewarding making music can be. Outside of teaching, she enjoys cooking, dancing, and learning new languages. She’s also a proud cat mom to Oreo and Apollo—her two lovable fur babies! 

Mr. Poulan began his band journey in 5th grade in the Clovis West area, and was heavily involved in the band program at Clovis West HS through graduation.  He earned his music education degree at Fresno State and has been teaching in the area since. His primary instrument is trombone, and considers himself a brass specialist through his work with the Sacramento Mandarins drum corps. He has experience teaching 1st grade all the way through collegiate level music students with varying backgrounds. He firmly believes that music education isn't a privilege, but a necessity for all students to become the best humans they can be through the experiences they will have. Outside of teaching, Mr. Poulan, spends time with his soon-to-be wife Alea, their dog Atredies, enjoys books, time outside, videogames, and the occasional Lego set!