Klarinet Archive - Posting 000619.txt from 2002/10

From: JMarioneau@-----.com
Subj: Re: [kl] ...more about music education
Date: Fri, 25 Oct 2002 20:37:24 -0400

Why is music and library called "categorical?" Maybe you should be working
to make them curricular. Gather evidence that shows how music study and
participation improved the student. Present that evidence to the people who
have the influence and get them on your side. Make sure they also understand
that their stand on this will get (or cost) them votes. You can also contact
Robert Floyd at the Texas Music Educators Association and he can give you
some ideas.

Texas has fought that battle for many years and has done well in dealing with
the powers that be. The band physical fitness test in the 80's was just one
interesting thing that backfired on the PE and coaching group when the
legislature got involved. Some brilliant person decided that since band
could substitute for Physical Education, the band kids would have to take a
physical fitness test and if they didn't pass it, they would have to drop
band and take PE. The PE test was made up and of course all of us band
directors were having our students do calisthenics and conditioning to
prepare for this. The test was administered in a few schools to band and PE
classes as part of a pilot program. When the results came back the band kids
who had never taken PE did no worse and in most cases better than the PE kids
and even better than many of the kids taking athletics (the tackles and
shot-putters for instance, couldn't do the required number of chin-ups or run
the 100 yard dash in the required times). The legislators surmised that a
kid who played an instrument for years should do much better than a kid who
had never played one: therefore, a kid who took PE for years should do much
better on a PE skills test than one who never took PE. The "coach under the
tree" syndrome was brought up sometime during these discussions. The
legislature got rid of the PE skills test and also demanded an investigation
into the PE situation in the state. Sometimes the good guys win one. I
suggest you get in touch with Bobby Floyd at TMEA. He can provide much
insight that might help your situation. Good luck.
James Marioneaux

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