The students attending Munro Academy’s Balls Creek campus have numerous reasons to cherish their school. Each day, they are fortunate enough to study in an atmosphere that motivates them to excel as their most capable academic, social, and spiritually-minded individuals.
Over recent years, this private Christian academy has become known for providing a distinctive and varied educational journey to its students. The faculty and administration collaborate closely to address the individual requirements of every learner.
The Munro Academy in Balls Creek strives to develop various educational and social initiatives aimed at enriching every student’s learning journey. Whether they join the reading program or participate in the spelling bee club, numerous activities ensure students remain actively involved.
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NEW MUSIC CLUB POPULAR
One of the most beloved activities at the elementary school is undoubtedly the Ukulele Club. Mary Rafuse initiated this club about three years back. Besides her role as the school secretary, she also takes on the responsibilities of a music teacher. According to her, she finds great joy in interacting with the students.
The music program at Munro Academy gives students the chance to develop their skills through both theoretical understanding and practical application. We prioritize equipping our students with the necessary knowledge to foster self-assurance and pursue further musical endeavors.
When we launched the Ukulele Club, we saw an overwhelming reaction. At first, the club was exclusively for fifth-grade students. However, due to numerous requests from younger kids, we expanded it to include third, fourth, and fifth graders.
Initially, students tend to feel somewhat anxious as they start out. They worry that perhaps learning the ukulele might be too difficult for them. However, once they grasp the initial couple of notes, they find it quite manageable and grow increasingly at ease.
We start with the fundamentals. I instruct the kids about the various components of the ukulele. It’s crucial that they grasp how to handle it correctly, yet even more important is instilling an appreciation for the instrument. Whenever new members join our group early in the academic term, I let them know that mastering the ukulele isn’t tough; however, it requires consistent practice.
Mrs. Rafuse stated that joining the Ukulele Club offers numerous advantages. According to her, participants connect with peers who share similar interests, develop self-discipline and effective time-management skills, and learn how to collaborate successfully with their fellow members.
Currently, there are 15 students registered for the ukulele program. Should someone inquire with these participants about their favorite aspect of joining this group, most would probably mention enjoying how individual musical notes come together to form complete songs over time.
The students are often amazed when they realize their individual notes come together to form complete songs. They begin by mastering just two chords before moving on to tackle more complex pieces.
The students are enthusiastic to play; they consistently show curiosity towards the songs they'll be learning. No prior experience is required to join the Ukulele Club. We simply request that our members come with an openness to learn and a willingness to enjoy themselves.
LOTS OF PRACTICE
As per Mrs. Rafuse, the students genuinely enjoy attending practices. With the exception of being absent due to illness or scheduled appointments, they typically show up regularly. The participants consistently exhibit good behavior and understand their responsibilities during these sessions.
For numerous students, joining the club entails sacrificing playtime in the playground during lunch breaks or after school hours. Those wishing additional practice can use the music room at noon. The ukuleles utilized by club participants belong to the school and are kindly provided for student use.
"Students are thrilled to participate in the program and show great dedication to performing at their peak. Comparing their skills from when they initially joined the club until the end of the academic year, I feel immensely proud of what they have achieved," said Mrs. Rafuse.
The Ukulele Club participates in internal gatherings such as talent shows and also entertains audiences at Balls Creek elementary school assemblies. They are set to start getting ready for the upcoming year-end festivities.
The Munro Academy consists of two campuses. The Balls Creek location accommodates students from pre-primary through fifth grade. Meanwhile, the Northside campus in Sydney Mines includes facilities for middle school, high school, as well as an early learning center.
Sherry Mulley MacDonald is both an author and a columnist. A lifetime inhabitant of Northside, she holds a deep fondness for her neighborhood.