Chp 18 9-16-09

Secondary Education
Chapter 18 9-16-09
Kelsey Wilhelm

#3
Who is generally credited with initiating music in the public schools of the United States?
The National Endowment for the Arts initial working together with the National Endowment for the Humanities poured large amounts of money into the schools in the early 60s to bring the music education to a solid effect in schools. Of course, now days, this education seems to only go so far. The required study time ends at about 12 for most students and the requirement to continue diminishes. Now days, a student has the ability to perform in music until a junior high level where they must then decide among other electives and extra-curricular activities upon staying or leaving the programs.

#5
I believe some of the biggest challenges in the secondary school music programs are:
1. A large amount of commitment to other programs. This is a big deal because until now, there was basketball, volleyball, football, track (ect) seasons. Now, we have year round programs that put so much emphasis on one activity that students feel they must enthrall themselves in them in order to stay ahead. These types of programs put so much emphasis on becoming the best at one thing rather than learning many things and participating. It puts too much pressure on young kids to manage time and spread themselves thin.
2. Discipline. The overall attitude of students and parents these days can seem a bit discguisting. The respect that I feel people have lost for one another is a complete detriment to the school systems. No longer to teachers have an overall control over their students. The students control the teachers with threats and the ability to throw a situation. There needs to be more understanding of roles and how the teacher is the one who is in control and handles classrooms.
3. Curriculum. I believe that the facts that prove how music can help students thrive in school is enough basis to add the program to the curriculum. Giving the choice of music, I believe, is only hindering people’s lives. It is something that everyone experiences on a daily basis and the appreciation of it would only cause betterment of lives.
4. Setting up the learning quality. It’s hard for secondary music educators to cover all bases. I wish that rehearsals could be overall more engaging and educational. Even if this means a reduction in repertoire and concert performances.
5. Finances. Music education is a big financial responsibility. The equipment and tools necessary for this program can be hard to come by. The support is needed from families and communities surrounding it but in some situations can simply not be provided. I think by adding a better budget to these institutions we can help programs strive. Fund raising can take up too much time and be more of a hassle than the actual music program can sustain.