The Portage High School Orchestras began the year with a discussion of character. Portage Township Schools is encouraging our students to think about the core values of zest, grit, self-control, optimism, gratitude, social intelligence, curiosity, the four C’s and employability skills. Students were asked to study posters displayed on the bulletin boards throughout the classroom and complete a survey as to which poster they found personally most relevant. Next, they were asked to describe how they demonstrate that trait, which trait they might like to develop, who they admire for their character trait and why. Finished sheets are displayed in the classroom.
Music is more than an expression of beauty; it provides students an opportunity to connect in many ways. The purpose of the exercise was to begin developing a positive relationship between the members of the orchestras and help them understand how their personal character traits will help our class and our school become a better place.