PLE music teachers highlight hands-on learning ahead of June 2 Spring Sing

The Pewaukee School District heard a Spotlight on Learning presentation focused on elementary music during its April 27 board meeting. Catherine Christensen introduced the program and said the PLE (elementary) curriculum covers singing, movement, instrument exploration and early composition, with formal reflection activities after performances.

"Our motto and our mission every day is 'let's create something beautiful together,'" Christensen said, describing how students co-create concert pieces and then reflect on what they learned. Teacher Stephanie Beyer and Christensen said concerts are intentionally tied to literature and cross-curricular learning; the kindergarten concert this year used the book Pete the Cat and incorporated student speakers, movement and instrumentation.

The teachers described Spring Sing as an all-school event that showcases encores including music, Spanish and art. They told the board Spring Sing is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2 (performances begin about 1:15 p.m.; gates/opening to the public around 1:30 p.m.) and said the event typically draws large family attendance — board members and staff estimated roughly 1,200–1,500 family and friends at past events. The presentation emphasized student ownership in performances and the social-emotional value of group music-making.

Board members thanked the teachers and encouraged community attendance. The board also discussed logistical elements, including that the event will be held in the stadium and that staff are preparing for large crowds.