This past week I had the opportunity to see outstanding performances from three of our performance groups: Band, Orchestra and Choir. I have always had a strong appreciation of these groups and understood the importance of the arts in school, but this week I looked at them from a different lens. One in which I realized that these students are learning more than a musical skill. They are learning skills for life.
I had a revelation that the arts are teaching the students the importance of practice, perseverance, and working outside their comfort zone. All three are life-long skills. The patience and grit required to perform at such a high level can only serve these students as they move throughout their lives. As we prepare students for post-secondary life a student who understands the importance of focused practice, and can persevere through a challenging life experience and is willing to take risks is an marketable and valuable employee.
I really have to take this into account when analyzing the type of programs NPHS wants to offer and what other salient skills our students learning in a program. High school must be about more than academic/curricular tasks. High school is preparing students for life, therefore we to provide opportunities for them to acquire real-world skills like, grit, perseverance, critically thinking and increase in aptitude.
All at NPHS and CVUSD are focused on growing the arts. Thanks to all of those who make our programs so strong and student-centered. I forgot to mention, the music was also amazing this week!!
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