Drum program boosts students’ self esteem, creates personal growth opportunities

Students in the Tea After School Kids (TASK) program are taking to heart the message displayed on a sign in the hallway leading to a band room at the intermediate school: Make a joyful noise.

About a dozen TASK participants, who will all enter third through sixth grade this fall, gather to practice choreographed drum routines twice a week. The group is part of the national Sheltered Reality program, which encourages joy and learning through music at all ages.

The Sheltered Reality program caught the attention of TASK Director Vickie Barbeau when she saw a performance at a leadership conference. The nonprofit program aims to inspire its practitioners and audiences to form positive connections through music.

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