Curriculum

Music provides our students with opportunities to explore their creativity and to take risks to perform in front of their peers and parents.

Our preschool students play instruments, listen, move to music and sing songs related to their classroom units of study, the seasons, and special occasions. The librarian joins the music teacher in the two-year old classroom and children listen to stories accompanied by instrumental sound effects and songs. In PreK, the letter of the week is often incorporated in music activities.

Students in Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and 2nd Grade play many different instruments, sing, create movements, and learn music to present for special occasions during the year.  Many music activities connecting with IB units are done throughout the year. As they progress, they begin to learn how to read music. Many of the songs they learn are used during chapel services.

Intermediate students develop their skills in reading notes and rhythms through singing and playing instruments.  Playing the recorder and autoharp is a part of third grade music. They also learn about Texas through songs. Handchime ringing is an important part of fourth grade music class. Fifth graders learn to play more difficult music on Orff instruments, chimes, and other instruments.  Fourth and fifth grade students learn music about America and its musicians and are involved in music activities related to IB units of study. Sixth grade students have a more in-depth study of music theory, music appreciation and music history.  Each one does research project about a European composer.  Training to be the leaders in various school programs and presentations is also part of music class activities.

Plays/Musicals

Our music teacher, Ms McKinney, works with the students to design and present information they are learning in class in musical form. Special performances take place throughout the year, and range from a few songs sung during our morning all-school meeting to full-length evening performances.

Music and Performing Arts Teacher ~ Rhema McKinney

Personal Info: I grew up in the Dallas/Fort Worth area in a very musical family. I came to Waco in 2006 to attend Baylor University, and have since made it my home. I am involved in Antioch Community Church in Waco, and have a strong relationship with the Lord. I am passionate about seeing children fufill the life God has planned for them, and I love the opportunity I have to see this happen everyday at St. Paul’s. This is my fourth year working at St. Paul’s and I hope for many more in the future.  Education Information: I have a B.A. in Language and Linguistics from Baylor University. I have taken classes in Spanish, Korean, and Arabic and have had international experience in Mexico, Tunisia, Guatemala, Indonesia, and India. Professional Info: I previously served St. Paul’s as a Teaching Assistant, After School Fun staff member, and part-time Spanish Teacher. Before coming to St. Paul’s, I have had experience in sales and office administration.