Columbia: Focused on Kids!

Recently I saw an informational graphic that indicates that every 60 seconds there are 3.8 million searches on Google!  Everything happens so fast!  The informational age presses us to complete many tasks with the assistance of technology.  Technology is present in every facet of our lives: from the time we get up and turn on the light, to the last minute text we send out before we go to sleep.  Imagine the world without the high tech influences, such as when years ago before there were light bulbs and people used candle light.  It is incredible that it would take 765 candles to equal a 60 watt bulb.  It is amazing how much technology has change our lives.

In education we often speak about the importance of STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Part of that importance is because the technology permeates every facet of our lives.  No longer do we use maps, we use GPS technology to search out and give us directions at every turn. At the Columbia School District we appreciate and focus on all areas of the curriculum, the STEM areas, foreign language, art, and music.  Students in our elementary may take advantage of after school and summer enhancement programs in Spanish language.  Our formal foreign language program begins in junior high school with an introduction to both French and Spanish.  As students learn and progress, they may continue to build their expertise in French or Spanish. 

Art!  Just the word conjures up visions of famous art pieces, hanging alongside of an inventive piece of kindergarten art.  Recently while speaking with a classroom full of sixth grade students I mentioned that I had a piece of art on my wall from one of the artists in the classroom.  Our students benefit from the opportunity to take art all throughout their educational pathway at Columbia.  Our elementary students love art because it generates creativity and gives them a basis for future academic success in all areas of their curriculum through the enhancement of their motor skills, visual acuity, and decision making.

Columbia School District has a focus on music beginning with our kindergartners!   General music is offered to all of our students.  Our students learn various areas of music, including choral music, and instrumental music.  One of the high lights for our elementary students is the Annual Second Grade musical.  Each year Mr. Cryderman spends hours and hours with our second graders learning, practicing and performing the musical.  The students learn many things through this experience.  Our music program enhances the natural creativity of our students.  They have the opportunity to learn camaraderie, gain self-confidence, and increase academic success.  Studies have shown that there is a positive correlation between music and mathematics.

Our music program gives students an opportunity to experience instrumental music through recorders in fourth grade, and band beginning in fifth grade.  The Columbia School District music teachers, Mr. Cryderman, Mr. Folts, and Mr. Akers combine to give our students a chance to learn how to play various types of musical instruments, including woodwinds, brass, and percussion instruments. 

The junior and senior high school musicals allow students to extend their love of music by combining dancing, singing and instrumental music.  The various musicals that our talented students have performed have given them insight into enhanced group interactions, increased self-confidence, and a positive academic correlation.  Giving our students the best opportunities in all areas of the curriculum including technology, art, foreign language, and music, will provide an enhanced level of success for all of our children and give them memories, skills, and experiences that will last a lifetime.  If you are interested in learning more about our programs at Columbia School District, email me at Pamela.Campbell@myeagles.org or call 5175926641.