About Dr. Barr


I would like to welcome you to music at Swift Creek Elementary School.  I will be returning to WCPSS for my 17th year of teaching, and am excited for my second year as a Swift Creek Cougar. 

My husband, Jay, and I live in Apex with our three children, a dog, and a snake. I enjoy traveling, crocheting, everything Snoopy, and visiting my friends and family. During the summer months, I join my church family in mission work where we help families in need have warmer, safer, and drier, housing.


I am originally from West Virginia and the D.C. metro area, so I proudly cheer on the Washington Capitals and West Virginia Mountaineers. I love to collaborate with my colleagues to engage children in meaningful learning opportunities. My classroom is a busy place with students singing, playing instruments, and learning through movement. There is always something interesting happening in music! Visit this page to learn more about how you can see what is happening in music at SCES. 

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I look forward to getting to know you this year. I am excited to make this my best year yet!

Education


Playing both piano and clarinet, I attended Marshall University where I graduated with my BA degree in Music Education. While assisting with the West Virginia All-State Band, I was recruited to attend George Mason University. At GMU I was the first female to graduate with a MA degree in Instrumental Conducting. While directing GMU's broadway shows and teaching courses in musical theater and the Graduate School of Education, I earned my PhD in Education. I specialized in fine arts integration and researched how elementary classroom teachers collaborate with fine arts specialists to meet both national music and state standards. In addition to piano, and various woodwind instruments, I play guitar and ukulele.  

Professional Experience



I have taught scholars from elementary to graduate school in West Virginia, Virginia, and North Carolina. I have been honored with the opportunity to conduct and perform with All-County Bands in West Virginia, Virginia, and New York. I have also served as a guest conductor of the United State Army Band and All Men's Chorus. While employed with National Heritage Academies, I was recognized as "Teacher of the Year," and a "National Teacher of Excellence." For three years, I served as the Music Senior Content Leader for 90+ schools.