In my classroom at Cannonsburg Elementary, the arts are not just something we do; they are how we learn, connect, and grow together.
Students are actively engaged in music every day through movement, instruments, and hands-on experiences. Using Xylophones, bucket drums, barred instruments, and rhythm activities, students are not sitting and watching; they are creating, performing, and thinking.
One of the most successful structures in my classroom has been the use of centers and station-based learning. Students rotate through different musical experiences, allowing them to explore rhythm, melody, and performance in a way that builds independence, confidence, and engagement. Clear routines and expectations support movement while maintaining a focused learning environment.
Performance-based learning is also a key part of my classroom. Whether preparing for a school program or participating in a collaborative piece, students work toward meaningful goals that build teamwork, responsibility, and pride. These experiences give students a sense of purpose and ownership in their learning.
In addition to performance, I focus on helping students understand the learning process in the arts. Students are encouraged to reflect, create, and make connections, not just follow directions. This supports growth not only as musicians, but as creative thinkers and problem-solvers.
What makes this work especially meaningful is seeing students who may struggle in other areas find success in the arts. The classroom becomes a space where every child can participate, contribute, and feel confident.
Through these experiences, I strive to promote the arts as an essential part of education—supporting student engagement, creativity, and meaningful learning.
MaryBeth Vance
Cannonsburg Elementary School
Boyd County School District
K – 5
