Back to School

I'm watching Kentucky play Mississippi State tonight. It's nip and tuck right now but I firmly expect the boys in blue to prevail.

The Humphreys County Tennessee School System returned to classes today after after an 18 day break. We actually began one hour late. Driving from Dickson County was quite a chore this morning, seeing that Dickson County students and teachers were given the day off. Anyway, it's been a good morning so far. McEwen High School kids seem happy to be back though none would dare admit it. Piano classes went well this morning.

We reviewed starting on page 50 of the piano books. I entered the grades for the second nine weeks on the computer during my planning period this morning. Most kids made A's with a few B's in the mix. My philosophy of high school beginning piano instruction is pretty much show up and try. Sure, kids are graded on their ability (or lack thereof) to perform exercises for a playing grade, but I meet them where they are. I have at least ten students in each of my classes. They all progress at different rates. I expect more from those who progress faster. I think that is how all education should be. Forget standardized testing. That dumbs down the material too much for the most talented IMHO. Anyway, off the soapbox I go.

Band classes were all about rhythm today. I used the vic firth rhythm exercises online with my smart board in both beginning and HS Band. We need to work our rhythms.

We will present our Christmas musical at FBC Dickson this Sunday. I know, It's after the New Year. We had bad weather when it was originally scheduled. I rehearsed the praise band tonight to refresh them on the material. We will rehearse with the choir on Friday night in preparation for the musical. I look forward to it.

Go Big Blue,
Jeff