Newhart Middle School
Instrumental Music
Mr. Kent Klingbeil & Mrs. Valerie Petty
March 2007
To the Parents of an
Incoming 6thÕs Grader in Music,
Entering middle school is a
giant step forward in every child's educational journey. They will be facing some
important decisions that will have a long-term impact on their life. Often
young people fear the added workload of the middle school curriculum and assume
they will not have time to participate in the music program. That is simply not
true.
Ironically, it is often the
continuation of musical studies that serves as the transitional key to success.
Being a member of a music ensemble ensures instant acceptance in a respected
organization at the onset of being a 6th grader. A group of supporting friends is
already established with a firm sense of "belonging."
There is more to it. As a
parent, you need to know that:
- Research shows that when music is included in a
student's daily learning that reading, writing and math scores improve.
- There is a high correlation between positive
self-perception, high cognitive competence scores, healthy self-esteem,
total interest in school activities and the study of music.
- College admission officers give special
consideration to students who are part of their high school music
programs. By taking music in
middle school, you are taking steps towards college requirements.
- The longer an individual studies music, the
higher his/her scores tend to be on both the verbal and math portions of
the SAT examination.
- Employers often seek out students who are part
of their high school music program because of the student's ability to
solve problems and work well with all kinds of people.
Your child deserves the
best as they enter the middle school culture. Please contact us if you have any
questions concerning this vitally important decision. We join you in your
commitment to the best education possible for your child.
Personal regards,
Mr.
Kent Klingbeil & Mrs. Valerie Petty
Newhart
Music Teachers
http://teacherweb.capousd.org/vapetty
