The Institute of Music for children brought seasoned artist/educators to Brick Avon Academy in Newark for a powerful music and technology residency program.
According to officials, the resident artist Gha'il Rhodes Benjamin and Spencer Frohwirth partnered with Avon's social studies teacher Stephanie Jones and designed a residency that aligned with the seventh-grade civil rights unit.
Through writing activities, the students explored their beliefs and wrote protest poetry officials said.
Brick Avon students involved in the program chanted "don't shoot, I want to grow up" as they protested against gang violence in one activity.
In addition to writing, students created their own beats and songs on the mobile multi-media lab while learning the essentials of electronic music composition from music producer and Newark resident Frohwirth.
Brick Avon Principal Charity Haygood has been impressed with the residency results over the years, but this year was entirely special for her officials said.
"Our children are definitely rising to this occasion. I love seeing their creativity and passion for what they believe. Even students that are frequently shut down and a couple of students who have a history of acting out are taking this seriously and producing terrific work" Haygood said.
Launch into 2011; Brick Avon is a K-8 public school located in Newark's South Ward. Bricks mission is to build responsible intelligent and creative kids.
Executive Director of the Institute Alysia Souder said the act of creating is a powerful one especially when the creators are children.
"Once a person understands the power of creating something artistic, and meaningful from its inception, it becomes a tool for success," Souder said.
Through a globally-minded curriculum, extended day program individualized, professional development, and community and family partnerships, Brick provide students with the opportunity to be college and wife ready in an interconnected globals society.