Valley Oak Elementary School Music Department

Valley Oak 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 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. 

Bethany Speir earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music Education with Vocal Music emphasis from Evangel University in Springfield, MO. Mrs. Speir has 23 years of teaching experience, having taught piano and voice lessons for several years and choral/classroom music in Clovis Unified since 2006. She loves helping young musicians develop their talents, skills, and passions and develop an appreciation for a wide range of music.  She is also an accomplished performer with extensive experience as a vocalist in choral groups, operas, theater, and bands, locally and internationally. When she is not teaching or making music, Mrs. Speir enjoys yoga, fishing, and exploring nature with her husband, Michael and two sons, John & Alex.

Miss Moore graduated at Fresno State University with a bachelors degree in Music and has 10 years of experience with teaching piano lessons. She studied music history abroad in Germany, Austria, and Italy.  Miss Moore has also helped assist teachers with practices and concerts for orchestras and bands in Clovis Unified. In the past, Miss Moore has played in band, church worship services, competitions, and for fundraising events. She enjoys teaching students of all ages and giving students the ability to play music.  Miss Moore enjoys visiting the beach, reading books, and drawing in her spare time.

Mr. Poulan earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from CSU Fresno. He teaches band, orchestra, and vocal music throughout the Clovis West area, which he is an alumnus of. His mission is to teach students that through consistently fostering a positive attitude, trying new skills, and seeking knowledge, students will feel rewarded and inspired in the music-making process. Outside of the elementary classroom, Mr. Poulan enjoys teaching marching band and drum corps, cares for multiple aquariums, likes to read, tinkers with Lego, and works to stay active even when life gets busy!