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Hillsboro School's Music Program Boosted Test Scores
6 Oct
Summary
- Kids on Stage program boosted student test scores significantly.
- Miley Cyrus and Kesha began their careers in this program.
- The program aimed to re-engage unmotivated students through music.
A music education program called Kids on Stage, established 30 years ago at Hillsboro Elementary and Middle School in Tennessee, has been credited with boosting student test scores and launching the careers of artists like Miley Cyrus and Kesha. Initially created to address declining enrollment and student motivation, the program provided a vital arts outlet for students who struggled in traditional academic settings.
Aubrey Preston, an investor who helped fund the program, noted that academic performance soared after the first year. The initiative provided students with hands-on musical experiences, from forming bands to learning about sound and lighting, fostering engagement and a sense of accomplishment.
The Country Music Association (CMA) Foundation has since invested $30 million into music education, continuing the tradition of supporting arts in schools. The CMA will honor 30 music instructors on October 7 with its 10th annual Music Teachers of Excellence award, recognizing their contributions to arts education across 12 states.
Educators like Trevor Baxter emphasize that music education teaches crucial life skills such as creativity, cooperation, and planning, which are valuable in all aspects of life. The success of programs like Kids on Stage underscores the lasting impact of music education on student development and future careers.
