I was fortunate to observe two separate music classes in my capacity as a para-educator. One music teacher, I had observed before; the other, I had not.

The students taught by the familiar music teacher practiced playing drums. The music teacher wasn’t specific about the types of drums the children played. He simply referred to them as big drums and small drums. He reminded them of where they needed to hit the drum for the bass and where they should hit the drum for and open beat. My research tells me this method is appropriate for the djembe. The teacher next led the students through a repetition lesson of BOB, BB O BB, and other combinations. I was delighted at how well the young students kept the beat.

In the second music class, I watched students listen to their teacher read Remarkable Farkle McBride written by John Lithgow. Next, the students watched a short video on the history and examples of string instruments. I wasn’t able to gauge the students’ understanding as the class was interrupted (as so often happens when OTHER classes take precedence over music).

Both teachers are excited about my studies. Networking with music teachers has been one incredible benefit in being a para-educator. I can’t wait to meet more!