Once again Ozark Blues Society's Blues in the Schools program was honored to be invited to bring blues history and music as part of their curriculum to the 7th graders in the Fayetteville Public Schools. From a humble beginning
in 2012 where we met with just one teacher's language arts class, the program has really grown! In 2013 we began to have the opportunity to bring blues to a larger group, meeting with each of the three "pods" at
McNair Middle School...a total of just over
300 kids! Then in 2016, following the grade realignment in Fayetteville Schools that moved 7th grade to the Junior High Schools, our invitation expanded to both Ramay and Woodland Junior High Schools and has allowed us to reach over 600 kids each year! Ozark Blues Society wishes to thank the many dedicated blues artists over the years that have been willing to get up FAR earlier than any blues musician ever should when presenting our first class of the morning programs.
Our morning program again this year was at Woodland Junior High School and involved meeting with the entire 7th grade in the gym. Our program at Ramay involves seeing each of three groups that together comprise the entire 7th grade in back to back presentations that begin following the last lunch period.
Check out the photos below from last week's programs. If you are a blues artist or a teacher and have questions about how to get involved or are interested in learning more about supporting our Blues in the Schools Programs, please email Sandy McCann
*********
The day began with a 7:15 am load in at
Woodland Junior High. Did I mention how amazing these artists are for being
willing to bring their awesome talent to these kids THAT early in the morning??
After a rousing start to the day at Woodland Junior High, it was on to Ramay Junior High for a full afternoon of presenting. Thanks once more to the Divas on Fire (in their reduced "school" group size) for making this program exceptional! Be sure to check out the last photo of Ocie dancing with one of her Ramay "fans!"
|