JCS Innovation-Centre La Mesa Gains National Attention for 'Concert for Music in our School’s Month'

Through a music education awareness program from the National Association for Music Education (NAfME,) a La Mesa charter school, JCS Innovation-Centre La Mesa, is being nationally recognized for its music choir program.  March is National Music in Our Schools Month and the school’s 3rd-5th Grade Ensemble is one of only 4 featured performances from California and the only group from San Diego County.

The Concert for Music In Our Schools Month is an innovative online concept for the annual Concert for Music In Our Schools Month, student video performances from across the U.S. and Europe are being featured on the NAfME website. All music students, educators, parents, and supporters are encouraged to view these videos in celebration of the importance of school music programs. The Concert for MIOSM (formerly known as the World’s Largest Concert) features songs appropriate for K–12 students. The 2014 program includes:  America of Thee I Sing, Explore, Dream, Discover, Shake Them Simmons Down, The Best in Me, The Star-Spangled Banner, Una Sola Voz.

The Innovation Centre-La Mesa performance can be viewed through the month of March at musiced.nafme.org/concert/videos/the-best-in-me/.  The school video receiving the most views by March 31 will get an Audio Box Stereo Recording Kit and training on how to use the product and software, generously provided by PreSonus.

The music program at Innovation Centre-La Mesa is taught by Bonnie Rice.  “The opportunity to be recognized by the NAfME for our music education program is very rewarding,” said Rice.  “The students put a significant amount of time and energy into the music program both during the school day and at home.  It is terrific for them to be recognized for their efforts.” 

“A key component of our curriculum is to embed music education as part of the teaching and learning process,” according Hillary Gaddis, IC-La Mesa Site Coordinator.  “Through a core inclusion of performing arts and music education, students are provided a well-rounded learning experience that stimulates creative thinking as well as an overall appreciation for the arts.”

—JCS Innovation Centre-La Mesa