Tokazowski leads the Rock Band elective for students in grades 6-8, giving them hands-on experience with instruments like guitar, bass, ukulele, piano, drums, and even vocals. Over nine weeks, students go from learning basic techniques to forming their own bands, complete with logos and setlists.
“We start with “Hot Cross Buns” on a C chord, and learn how to play the G, E-minor, A-minor, and D chords so you can basically play any pop song,” Tokazowski explained. “We just learned how to play ‘25 or 6 to 4’ by Chicago and ‘Dark Horse’ by Katy Perry.”
The class wouldn’t be possible without donations, fundraisers, and support from the School Board, which provides students with access to real instruments in a true band setting. Tokazowski believes hands-on experience makes all the difference.
“Students learn best when they get to ‘do’ something, but also get to invest in their own learning," said Tokazowski. "In this class, students get to eventually choose the songs they want to learn, which encourages them to keep making music—not just in the class, but outside of school, too."
At the end of the quarter, students put on a live performance for a small audience of parents and administrators, giving them the chance to show off their new skills. But Rock Band is about more than just chords and beats—it also helps students grow as leaders.
“I have one eighth-grade boy who has taken this class every time it’s been offered,” Tokazowski shared. “I have watched him become an amazing leader, always the first to raise his hand to demonstrate a new skill and help someone new to an instrument."
The class definitely hits a high note with students. “Many students want this to be a year-long class and ask how they can get their own instruments,” said Tokazowski. To help, she’s put together a list of affordable options for families interested in continuing the music at home.
Looking ahead, she hopes to continue growing the program. “It would be great to offer a ‘Rock Band I’ and a ‘Rock Band II,’ which would require some tweaking to the way our specials team offers electives for middle school. We shall see what the next school year brings."
Great job giving kids a creative musical experience!
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About Mountain View Academy
Mountain View Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Colorado Springs, Colorado, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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