Music, dancing, and laughter resonated the halls at Black Mountain Primary as resident musicians from LEAF wowed the students and staff. LEAF is a global arts organization that connects the Western North Carolina region with music and arts from around the world. The Black Mountain Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) helped organize this event, as a way to expand the students’ learning experiences.
“The PTO collaborated with the school in order to choose performers and workshops that support the school's mission for multi-discipline arts integration,” said PTO member and Speech-Language Pathologist Mary Beth Begley. “LEAF was a perfect fit for our school. We were so excited to bring in world music performers to expose our students to new cultures, and connect our community in music and dance.”
From the outside looking in to the auditorium, you would have thought a party was going on. Students laughed, played new instruments from around the world, and were treated to a fun sight- their teachers and principal dancing.
“Elementary aged students love when their principal and teachers can be silly and have fun,” said Principal Kelly Owen. “Seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces and hearing their giggles makes it all worth it. I enjoyed seeing the staff have fun together. It's so important to let loose and have a good time together to keep the spirit alive.”
Black Mountain Primary prides itself on being one of North Carolina’s A+ schools, which means arts education is fundamental to each child’s success. That’s why it’s important to expose students to opportunities such as this.
“Partnering with LEAF for this program allowed students to experience music, singing, and dance from another culture,” Ms. Owen said. “The students were immersed into an experience that they will remember for years to come.”
