Among my goals as an educator is helping those around me feel a sense of safety and belonging. Opportunities to build community happen in various settings, where music education happens. A key opportunity arises during concerts and assemblies. Here, students share their efforts with fellow students, faculty, staff, and parents. Additionally, my work in Equity & Inclusion allows me to contribute to community-building efforts. These efforts are not always visible, yet they are integral to the overall environment of the school.
In discussions about my dual roles, I focus on developing cohesive messaging for school tours. I am both a music educator and an Equity & Inclusion advocate when folks tour our school. These short discussions are structured to highlight the interconnection of various programs. They show how these programs can support a shared vision the Arts and Equity & Inclusion on campus. This enhances the experience for both visitors and the community.
When the institution first opened it’s newest building it was common for me to engage with groups touring the campus. I would give a brief overview of the activities happening in my classroom and their relevance to broader educational themes. Over time, I developed a rhythm with our admission director. I began sharing updates about our ongoing projects before performances or end-of-term assessments. This collaboration allowed for a richer narrative when engaging with visiting families. I learned to communicate more effectively. I also connected our work to the wider school community.
Additionally, I utilized this blog to document my experiences and the lessons learned during our transition to virtual classrooms. Through daily posts, I aimed to help other music educators facing similar challenges in teaching performing arts when working remotely. This platform served as a resource for my peers. It also reflected the journey of adaptation and growth that all educators experienced during this time.
Ed Castro's Blog 