Joanne Austin students showcase K'1 violin program as board spotlights school

At the May 26 meeting the board heard a presentation from Leslie Carsley, instructional leader at Joanne Austin Elementary, and Janet Clark, the school's music teacher, highlighting the school's strengths and the K'1 violin program run through Joy (Junior Orchestra of Yamhill County). Clark described program logistics: Joy provides box-violin starter instruments, professional instructors (Comfort Smith is the program instructor), and sized instruments and bows for students as they progress.

Four kindergarten and first-grade students performed short pieces and explained what they enjoy about the program and their school. Students who spoke or performed included Hayden Wolfford, Adakus Allen, Sloan Houston and Dory Puit. Leslie Carsley also spotlighted fifth grader Margot Sherman for leadership and high attendance and recognized school secretary Jayen Hardman for her role as the school's "face" and daily multitasker.

Clark explained the progression students take from box violins to appropriately sized instruments and noted after-school options for first graders to continue string study (violin, viola, cello) through the Joy program. The presentation included a slideshow and video the administration plans to share with board members and the community.

Board members praised the program and invited the board to schedule a tour of Joanne Austin to observe classrooms and programs in person. "We have a lot of great students at Joanne Austin...they bring us joy, laughter, amazement, and wonder each and every day," Carsley said.