Ms. Upshaw, Musical Artist in Residency

STARTING  the  SCHOOL YEAR with a BANG!!

The Mustangs of G. W. Watts Elementary School began the 2009-2010 school year with high expectations, energy, excitement and enthusiasm. During the month August, students returned to Mustang Territory expecting the best from educational and community stakeholders. Nonetheless, these students were not let down. Since day one, teachers have fulfilled students' expectations through a variety of planning and assessment meetings. Additionally, parents received opportunities to view data, and speak with faculty members and staff during OPEN HOUSE and the Annual Parenting Meeting. These activities were geared to welcoming parents and offered an opportunity to explain the various academic programs to parents in Mustang Territory.

During the week of August 24-28, 2009, students received the opportunity to interact with music from Ms. Allison Upshaw, a musical artist in residency. Ms. Upshaw supplied the students with musical instruments and assisted students in learning how to count and read musical notes. Furthermore, students were trained to understand which notes provide certain sounds for songs, poetry and rap. 

As the musical week ended, students were fortunate to preview a live African musical presentation performed by the Zulu Tribe Dancers. Although the African dancers live in Birmingham, each one is a native of South Africa. The dancers shared stories of their culture, explained why Africa is important, demonstrated rituals through dance and chants and reminded the students of the importance of staying in school and receiving an education. Students were exposed to original African languages (they have 36 languages and English is one of the languages) and dialect as the performers allowed students to repeat alphabets in their native language. The performers also shared why they were/are considered the most powerful tribe in Africa and how their Warrior Leader Shaku Zulu assisted them in becoming powerful. This was truly an art-eventful and academic month. ALL of these ACTIVITES took place during the FIRST MONTH of SCHOOL!  WOW!!  WE ARE OFF to a GREAT START!!