Bridges Learning Center is for Akron Public Schools students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Music therapist Edie Hardin-Steiner works with students every day to enrich their education through music.
She had a novel idea this week during Thursday afternoon classes and invited APS Superintendent Christine Fowler Mack to observe. Well ... one thing led to another ... and ...
The students had the superintendent rock with the band as she received guidance from a student showing her how to play the piano to accompany their music ensemble.
Hardin-Steiner explains her program this way, "We have four rock bands at Bridges Learning Center. These bands include a blend of staff and students. Even a couple of the custodians play in! When students see adults being their creative, best selves, they want to emulate, feel and be their best selves, too."
Edie added, "Students say that learning and playing music they have selected has improved their concentration and created a core group they can always depend on. Being in a band is a lot like being in a family. We don’t always agree, know how to support each other or have all the answers. Through music, they have learned the importance of hope, success and how we can make a difference in the lives of others."
Beautifuly said, Edie. She also told us that being a music therapist with Akron Public Schools for 22 years is her greatest joy. "I wake up every day feeling blessed to rock with the Bridges Bulldogs."