Vision+for+the+Arts

= New Berlin Music Staff Vision for the Arts Based on information gathered at Teacher Inservice, 3/26/09 =

 __Current Excellence in our programs__:

 __ How we can achieve excellence by modifying exiting programs: __  __ How we can achieve excellence by implementing new programs: __
 * 1) Commitment of music staff
 * 2) String program – 600+!
 * 3) We have many students pursuing music degrees
 * 4) Current percentage of student involvement (30% at Ike)
 * 5) Successful large groups at the secondary level (Marching band championships, choir trips, community involvement
 * 6) High visibility of our performing groups creates a positive image within the community, making music a valuable public relations asset
 * 1) We need consistency across the district in terms of programs and classes offered, and consistency in the content covered in elementary.
 * 2) Clear, sequential curriculum
 * 3) Basic course offerings before AP
 * 4) Support for instruction on the part of administrators and classroom teachers
 * 5) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">Example: Students need to be able to leave class for lessons
 * 6) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">Equality for all music programs, both in opportunities offered and in resources
 * 7) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">Each school does not get the same amount of money for band, general music, choir.
 * 8) Resources: All schools need adequate risers and instruments for current programming.
 * 9) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">This will require the addition of new programs in some schools, more money, and possibly more staff.
 * 1) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">We need a music department chair-person at district level to handle things like budget, curriculum continuity, program equity
 * 2) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">General music should start in Kindergarten. Currently, first grade general music is mostly playing catch-up with what they should have learned in Kindergarten. This will probably require additional part time staff (Currently there is one 80% music teacher that could take on more classes)
 * 3) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">Start students earlier in band and orchestra:
 * 4) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">Start strings in 4th
 * 5) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">Start band in 5th
 * 6) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">Communication with parents through //measurable academic standards// on report cards
 * 7) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">Requires new, specific curriculum broken down by semester and new report card for music.
 * 8) <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; msobookmark: OLE_LINK1;">Choir should be offered as a class that meets during the school day just like band and orchestra. (Not a co-curricular activity as it is now.) This would result in a stronger secondary vocal music program.