Spark Grant Makes A Positive Impact

We’re thrilled to partner with Alexis Kagel, one of our 2023 Spark Grant Recipients!

This school year is Alexis’ 5th year at Central Elementary School in Orange County, and her 16th year teaching elementary music. Born and raised in Illinois, Alexis Came to North Carolina to study music education at Elon University and to escape the winters in Chicago. She is a National Board Certified Teacher and completed her Orff Schulwerk certification this summer. She has sat on the board of the Central Carolina Chapter of the American Orff Schulwerk Association since 2016, serving as Recording Secretary, Vice President, President, and now Past President. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys aerial arts, specifically aerial hoop, performing occasionally in Burlington. She lives in Burlington with her husband, 5 year old daughter, and two dogs

Dear ACEMM,

I want to sincerely thank you for your support in funding my Spark Grant project. I purchased resources to make all of our activities more accessible for my student who uses a wheelchair.

The biggest impact item was a rolling table for pitched percussion. Before we had the table, my student would hold a glockenspiel in her lap and play with one hand. Now she can access almost all of our instruments, and she can use both hands.

It also helps her whenever we’re using any kind of manipulatives. As is often the case, the items I purchased to help one particular student have been helpful for many! My students are particularly enjoying the ribbons on scrunchies (who wouldn’t!?) Thank you again, ACEMM, for making music more accessible for all of my students.

Sincerely,

Alexis Kagel