Fox Cities News

For four decades, March has been recognized as Music In Our Schools Month by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME). This initiative underscores the importance of music education in students' lives. The Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) is highlighting its music educators who provide transformative musical experiences.

Elementary music teachers shared their program highlights. Mr. Kessler from Menominee Elementary noted, “With over six hundred students creating a new school family, this year’s students have been successful with learning the recorder and the ukulele.” Mr. Flaughter emphasized a significant moment when students explored Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition." He said, “This activity brought history, creativity, and emotion to life.”

Mrs. Schmidt from Carl Traeger Elementary expressed pride in her concerts, while Mrs. Gates from Roosevelt Elementary highlighted collaborations with professional opera singers. At Emmeline Cook Elementary, Mrs. Brozik focused on developing musical thinking among her students.

Middle school educators also shared insights. Mr. Koboski at Vel Phillips Middle School celebrated the growth of his band program, while Dr. Nguyen described the choir as a close-knit community striving for excellence. Ms. Carloni spoke about diverse performances by the Fiddle Club and mentoring programs.

High school educators continued to foster music appreciation and performance skills among students. Mrs. Dorschner-Mackie at Oshkosh North High School discussed a growing jazz program, and Ms. Duffy-Ulrich mentioned various vocal performance groups available to students.

The impact of these programs extends beyond music skills, offering critical life skills and self-expression opportunities for students.