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At McKinley Elementary, each child in grades K-3 receives general/vocal music instruction 30 minutes per week. At all grade levels, this program strives to meet the National Standards for Music Education. Kindergarten, first and second grade students use their voices, their bodies and rhythm instruments to develop their musicianship. Second and third grade students use general music textbooks, as well as singing, rhythm instruments and body movement to continue their musical development. Third grade students also begin playing recorder to further enhance beginning note reading and ear training. Fourth and fifth grade students' who choose general music rather than joining the instrumental music program, continue to develop their vocal expertise and general music skills through singing, rhythm instruments, and use of their general music text books.
Students learn music fundamentals in a supportive, nurturing environment. Many of the materials used coordinate with ongoing study in the students' classrooms. Music is a wonderfully effective means to explore multicultural traditions, world history, and languages from around the globe. With vocal music activities such as the Winter Sing-a-long, the Pier Arts Event in the spring, and at least one on-site concert opportunity per year, students can experience the joy of performing their music for appreciative audiences from throughout the community.
Jessi Spike Gravelle currently teaches General Music K-5 for SMMUSD. Ms. Spike has been working with the District schools since 1999. She is also the co-owner (with husband Darren Gravelle) of the Santa Monica Academy of Music on Wilshire Blvd. Through her Academy she and her husband (along with 14 additional instructors) teach over 250 piano, string, brass, wind, and voice students weekly from Santa Monica and adjacent West Side communities. Ms. Spike holds a BA from UCLA, an MA from CSUN, and is currently pursuing her MA in Music Education and her single subject teaching credential from CSLA.
Instrumental Music
District Visual and Performing Arts Program
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