Thanks to a grant coordinated by the Calhoun ISD and funded by the Guido A. and Elizabeth H. Binda Foundation, Integrated Arts Teacher Amy Rios was able to implement a new program into the curriculum. “Strum and Drum” is what she calls it, and students at Sonoma are getting an opportunity to explore and interact with instruments they wouldn’t traditionally see in their elementary music experience. “Student’s interests are constantly changing and evolving. During Covid, we saw a huge shift in the way our students interact with information. We as teachers are constantly having to change up our delivery of information and materials. I am always looking for new and engaging ways to reach students through the performing arts. Bucket drumming and Ukuleles were just the right addition to get all our students interested in music again.” With the grant, Rios was able to purchase a class set of Ukuleles and bucket drums. Students in developmental Kindergarten through fourth grade have been working on their stick control and drumming patterns before moving onto the buckets. Third grade students are focused on learning chords and finger placement on the frets with the Ukuleles.
Third grade student Kenzley Olmstead had this to say when asked about her experience with new instruments this year: “I like the Ukulele. We didn’t have them last year, and I think I will be able to have a great learning experience. I think this year I’ll be successful learning about the Ukulele.” Frankie Phaff said her favorite part of having the Ukuleles is “learning a new instrument and new things.”
Mrs. Rios is hopeful that over the next few years Sonoma students will be able to perform for different events around the city.
Strum & Drum Photos
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Uniting Community, Building our Future: Join Us Wednesday, April 15 at 5:30 PM March 24, 2026
Uniting Community, Building Our Future Community Event:
Why Come?
As a valued community member, you will hear important information on the topics of School of Choice, Casino Money, and the Facility Master Plan. You will be a key communicator for Harper Creek Community Schools.
Event Details:
When: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Harper Creek High School Media Center
Food, Prizes, and Information
Hope to see you!
Strong schools build strong communities.
Harper's Unsung Hero - Lindsey Cook March 11, 2026
Lindsey has evolved as an educator, taking on various roles, including early childhood teacher, first-grade teacher, fourth-grade teacher, and virtual English teacher for non-English learners. During and after the pandemic, she began to take on several leadership roles, which eventually led to her transition from teacher to administrator
It's Time for Countdown to DK/Kindergarten 2026 February 19, 2026
Welcome to Harper Creek Community Schools! Our Developmental Kindergarten and Kindergarten programs offer a safe, caring, and engaging start to your child’s education. We look forward to partnering with you to Educate, Empower, and Equip students for life.
Countdown to Kindergarten is for children who will be attending DK or Kindergarten in the 2026 - 2027 school year. Two sessions will be held at each of the Harper Creek Community Schools' elementary schools. Join us:
Tuesday, March 3, 6:00 - 7:00 PM
and
Tuesday, April 7, 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Harper's Unsung Hero - Lesa Kenney February 18, 2026
Lesa’s passion for music as a child led her to pursue a teaching degree. She was inspired by middle school music teachers and knew that she also wanted to be a music teacher. Although she couldn’t become a music teacher, she still completed her degree at WMU to become a teacher.
Harper's Unsung Hero - Dennis McKeen February 11, 2026
Dennis developed a passion for theater as a student at Battle Creek Central High School. He was fortunate enough to enjoy a long career, writing, acting, and directing shows in various venues. A few years after retiring from the theatre industry, he signed on to be a district sub for Harper Creek. He and our other district subs are of great value to our day-to-day operations, helping out wherever they are needed.
