CounterPoint

At the summer Steering Committee meeting, members discussed and reviewed the US Department of Education’s Fast Response Survey System May 2011 ‘First Look’ report, “A Snapshot of Arts Education in Public Elementary and Secondary Schools: 2009–10.” Although an early sample of a complete report expected later in 2012, nati

Parents of music students play many important roles. Two parents -- Scott McCormick (CEO of the National Association of Music Parents) and Hiram Jackson (a frequent contributor to the SupportMusic Facebook page) -- offer ways to motivate greater parental involvement. You’ll also find links to helpful books by Dr. John Benham and David Vandewalker, and resources from SupportMusic and NAfME (formerly MENC). Please share YOUR ideas on the SupportMusic Facebook page.

We will do well to listen to what teens tell us about music as a common need and a constant presence in their lives. Music is their social glue – a bridge for building acceptance and tolerance for people of different ages and cultural circumstances. –- Patricia Shehan Campbell, Ph.D., NAMM Foundation “Sounds of Learning” research study, 2008

Each year, School Band & Orchestra Magazine conducts a nationwide essay contest for 4th – 12th grade students. Ten students reflected on the 2011 Essay Question:

Now more than ever before it is vital for all music teachers and community members to be proactive about promoting the benefits of having a music program in their schools. In Pennsylvania, as in many other states, any subject not currently being tested and assessed through Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) or a similar body may be cut or even eliminated from the school curriculum during times of budget constraint.