Teaching Scholars
In-School Service Program
The Teaching Scholars program was introduced in Fall 2010 in partnership with Mason’s School of Music, and has continued successfully each year since then. Selected Mason music education majors are chosen as “Teaching Scholars”. These Scholars gain hands-on experiences working with school age children, grades 4-6, using faculty-directed curriculum in local elementary schools.
Through this program, elementary school children are given supplemental instruction to enrich their musical experiences, along with instruments provided through our Instruments in the Attic program to use and practice with during the school year. Instruction takes place once a week in the selected school during after school hours. Experiences include direct instrumental teaching and other musical study such as improvisation, listening, and composition. Participating students are identified by the school’s music teachers and administration, based on a set of criteria that often indicates significant barriers to quality arts education.
The Teaching Scholars also assist with one Mason Fairfax Campus visit for the students each semester. These field trips include attendance to a School of Music concert performance. Partnering schools assist with the transportation logistics.
Learn more about our new “International Teaching Scholars” initiative, a collaborative effort between Mason Community Arts Academy (formerly Potomac Arts Academy), Mason’s School of Music and the Sistema Nacional de Educacion Musical (SiNEM) in Costa Rica!
See our local Teaching Scholars program in action:
“Taking part in the Teaching Scholars program has been a real treat of mine this year and I am delighted to have been able to share my love of music with such fine and deserving young musicians at Woodburn. The ability to witness musical progress and individual growth throughout my time at Woodburn was and continues to be a great reward and source of personal inspiration. Seeing students’ faces light up with joy and enthusiasm during each and every class was a powerful reminder of the importance of what music educators do on a daily basis. Music is a vital component of a complete and well-rounded education and I truly believe that the outreach work of the Potomac Arts Academy is changing the lives of countless students for the better.” -Vincent Prinzivalli, BM Music Education, Mason Class of 2012
Interested area schools should contact the Mason Community Arts Academy to find out more details on how to get a Teaching Scholars program established in your school.
Phone: 703-993-9889
Email: academy@gmu.edu
