My students live at poverty level income and many have experienced abuse and neglect. Some are even supporting themselves independently. These teenagers come to school every day regardless of circumstances, because they believe in a better future. School is their home away from what often is a challenging, even oppressive home environment. When listening to students share their stories and what inspires them in life, music is a resounding constant. They listen to music for comfort and inspiration and desire to learn how to play an instrument. These students have chosen alternative education, because the mainstream status quo is not their reality. At their school, an yes it is THEIR school, they are able to be themselves and get the help they need to be successful. Music is a crucial piece in affording them the hope they need to persevere through challenges and an opportunity to contribute to their community.
About my class
My students live at poverty level income and many have experienced abuse and neglect. Some are even supporting themselves independently. These teenagers come to school every day regardless of circumstances, because they believe in a better future. School is their home away from what often is a challenging, even oppressive home environment. When listening to students share their stories and what inspires them in life, music is a resounding constant. They listen to music for comfort and inspiration and desire to learn how to play an instrument. These students have chosen alternative education, because the mainstream status quo is not their reality. At their school, an yes it is THEIR school, they are able to be themselves and get the help they need to be successful. Music is a crucial piece in affording them the hope they need to persevere through challenges and an opportunity to contribute to their community.