Fifth Grade Band Canceled at St. Ignace, Gros Cap Schools

Starting next fall, a music appreciation class will replace fifth-grade band at St. Ignace Area Schools, said Superintendent Mike Springsteen.

The choice is a curriculum change that is not based on a financial decision, he said. At the recommendation of music teachers, and after analyzing offerings at other districts, St. Ignace decided to offer a general music class for fifth grade students. It will be taught by Stephanie Terpening, occasionally assisted by Jason Byma. Mr. Byma is the band director, and is currently teaching fifth-grade band.

Band will be offered for the first time in sixth grade. Few schools offer band at the fifth-grade level, Mr. Springsteen added.

In music appreciation, students will learn about harmony, scales, notes, and practice on a recorder, a flute-like instrument.

Eliminating fifth-grade band at St. Ignace eliminates it for Gros Cap School students, who are bused to St. Ignace to take band. Gros Cap students will be invited to take part in the music appreciation class next year, Mr. Springsteen said.