Brevard schools put emphasis on music

The sound of music is flowing through public schools in Brevard County.

The Space Coast is tops in the state and striking a chord with its ‘Music Demonstration Schools.’

There’s no denying you’re in Mrs. Slawson’s music class at Saturn Elementary.

Students are playing their instruments in harmony: violins, drums, xylophones and voices.

Saturn is one of the 27 Music Demonstration Schools in Brevard County. That’s a pretty big feat. But there’s more. There are 32 total such schools in the state of Florida.

“I think it really shows the dedication to music, and how important it is to give students a well rounded education,” said Joani Slawson, Saturn Elementary music teacher.

The distinction means these schools have exemplary music programs, from the teaching, to administration and parental support. And high numbers of students are qualifying for honor groups at the county and state level.

A rigorous music portfolio must be submitted to the state department of education. Then site visits happen, and they’ve made plenty of visits to Brevard.

You can see and hear the enthusiasm pouring out of these students with every note played.

“I like the beat and the sound, and how they make all the music connect and click,” said fifth grade music student Elizabeth Leib.

Fifth grader J’Shawn Williams plays the drums and several other instruments. He even is a student conductor.

“I feel like I am doing something good and my music sounds good,” said J’Shawn.

Another school budget year is upon us, and once again music programs could be on the chopping block. But these students and their teacher tell us this creative outlet helps them in all their other schoolwork.

“Students in music class, it’s shown their test scores are higher, they are more prepared for life as they continue to grow. It’s giving them a great foundation,” said Slawson. 

Saturn Elementary is visited by teachers who can observe the music program for themselves.