I started my teaching career with one foot in the music classroom and the other in a 5th/6th grade regular education classroom. So when March rolls around, I always get a little nostalgic—after all, it’s Music In Our Schools Month! Some of my best years were spent in the music room, where I got to witness firsthand how powerful the arts are in shaping students' confidence, creativity, and sense of belonging.
That’s why this afternoon’s General Session opener hit me right in the feels. OUTSTANDING student musicians, high-energy performances, and some truly incredible techno-mixing (yes, I just made that up, but it’s the best way to describe it). The music was electric. Goosebumps. And yes, I might have been singing along a time or two. I hope you found yourself tapping your toes, maybe even clapping as the choir made their way out of the auditorium with a little When the Saints Go Marching In magic! 🎶
A huge thank you to all the choirs and musicians who shared their talents today—what a gift!
But here’s what I just don’t get…
How can we have schools across America filled with choirs, bands, orchestras, show choirs, musicals, visual arts programs, and a host of other fine arts opportunities—and still hear this tired old narrative that public schools are failing? I mean, seriously. Have the critics been to a school concert lately?
This afternoon, Gustavo Balderas shared some great insights, and as my colleague and I were looking at one of his slides, we were reminded: we need to activate every school, every parent, every community member to keep amplifying the message—just like that choir did today—that public schools are doing incredible things for kids.
Yes, there’s uncertainty ahead. But that’s nothing new. Education has always evolved. Think back to the many historical shifts we’ve navigated over the decades. It’s our turn. We are the stewards of education right now.
And if today’s student performers reminded us of anything, it’s this: our kids are experiencing amazing opportunities, and they are hopeful about their future.
Let’s make sure the rest of the world knows it, too!
Jane
