Overall Program Goals and Beliefs

·  Standards based approach

Curriculum is aligned with established criteria for student learning outcomes.  Curriculum, lessons, and assessment are developed using state and national standards for Music as a foundational resource.  Essential skills and knowledge are the building blocks for student success in Music. Standards-based framework for instruction designs a curriculum that is both rigorous and relevant to students' needs, and can foster a coherent and sequential educational experience.

·  Data informed decisions

Curriculum is empowered through incorporating data-driven decisions into instruction tailored to best meet the individual students’ needs.  Analyzing data allows for acknowledgement of strengths and areas for improvement.  Content and instructional strategies are adjusted accordingly to maximize teacher effectiveness.  Data allows for tracking progress over time to monitor student growth.  Data is collected through formative and summative assessments, written and performance-based tasks, formal and informal observations, and feedback via surveys and reflections. 

·  Student centered approach

Integrating student-centered learning into curriculum places students at the focal point of learning. The interests, needs, and abilities of students are incorporated for engaging and personalized learning experiences. Student centered learning encourages participation, critical thinking, and collaboration which foster a deeper understanding of content and promote lifelong learning skills. As a result, students take ownership of their education which can serve as a catalyst enhancing their overall personal growth and success.

·  Holistic instruction utilizing multiple perspectives

Music, often misnomer as a universal language, has the capability for interdisciplinary connections and relevancy in our daily lives.  Students are encouraged to view the interconnectedness of music with multiple facets to develop a comprehensive understanding of complex concepts and real-world issues. This approach promotes students to develop critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.  As a result, students are prepared to make informed decisions regarding complex, diverse challenges and understand the relationship between music and the world around us.

·  Guided by experiential learning

Curriculum is influenced by our prior experiences.  Music instruction offers positive and engaging learning experiences for students to foster a passion for making music through hands-on and real-world applications.  Students will develop skills to understand and value diverse perspectives while promoting the student voice. These skills empower learners to discover their role in our ever-changing society.