Feb. 7, 2025
Holding a ukulele at her music classroom door, Alexis Bell sets the tone for every class with a smile and a song.
“It’s going to be a great day to make music together,” she says. “Let’s make a circle and be ready to sing kind words to each other.”
Bell is a music teacher at Sherwood Elementary School, teaching music learning standards for K-5 students. And at the start of every class, Bell sings songs to create a welcoming and positive environment, she says.
“These songs not only capture the students’ attention but also foster a sense of community and belonging,” said Bell. “When students begin class by receiving words of affirmation from their classmates, it sets the tone for the day and helps students feel more engaged and ready to participate in their learning.”
In addition to encouraging students to be ready to learn about music, Bell’s songs reinforce important character traits, like kindness, respect and teamwork. Students sing to one another in a circle of trust, building a personal connection to each other and fostering a vulnerability to try new things, like singing out loud or learning an instrument.
“Music also creates a multisensory experience, which can support different learning styles and improve retention, ultimately boosting student success,” says Bell.
For Sherwood Superstars, there’s a joy that comes with these songs in their school community every day. Every time principal Julie Routh hears them in the hallway, she can’t help but smile.
“When students engage in these songs together, they're reminded that their uniqueness is valued," said Dr. Routh. "At Sherwood, we work to ensure that every student feels like they are valued, and they belong here."
