Music teachers are some of the schools’ best instruments (pun intended) for connecting with the community. While community involvement looks different for teachers of different age levels, they all can play a part in tying schools and families together into a cooperative learning unit.
Elementary general music teachers have the benefit of seeing every child in the school. This dynamic gives us a unique chance to connect with every family, so long as we communicate regularly. Newsletters from related arts teachers to the community at home can keep pathways open, and help parents stay up to date on news about clubs and school events. Additionally, music teachers can up the ante at community events by scheduling chorus and band concerts to coincide with them, which both improves the atmosphere at the event and also draws a much larger crowd than might otherwise attend.
Middle and High School band directors have one of the school system’s biggest connections with the community: the marching band. Elementary teachers can often be involved with the marching band as well, as assistant directors or part-time instructors. The marching band embodies the spirit of the school, and brings that spirit with them to sporting events, parades, pep rallies, and competitions. Band directors should always strive to connect with the athletic department, and the student body in general, as much as possible. A sense of united school pride goes a long way to establishing a healthy and inclusive atmosphere for learning and growing at all age levels.
Without band parents, there is no band. From student support and instrument acquisition at the elementary level all the way to high school band booster associations and community fund raisers, parents and volunteers make up an invisible but essential scaffolding that keeps school music afloat.
In order to facilitate family and community involvement, it is essential to have regular, clear communication. An online calendar, forms sent home with students, and direct email correspondence with parents and volunteers will all help keep the machine oiled and running. Additionally, rewards (and incentives) in the way of parent shows, fun chaperoning opportunities, and band paraphernalia go a long way towards keeping a program well-supported.
Below are some handouts that were sent home to parents.
Jonathan Hilgendorf 