And the gaps between the whole-school group and the intact group have closed. Success in meeting benchmarks in basic curriculum areas means the school can continue to provide the well-rounded education that parents expect and the staff believes in. While some schools in the district have abandoned music and art to focus on raising test scores, Jacksonville School begins its day with a music-appreciation program purchased by the Britt Festival, one of the school's business partners. A different composer is featured each week. During the first week in December, for instance, a William Byrd harpsichord melody trills out over the PA system.
Kids learn about the composer, the piece, the instruments, the musical style.
After music appreciation, the school's intermediate students are in a music block, in addition to their twice-weekly general music classes. Each spring the school stages a musical in the Britt Theater tucked in the hills above town. Goerke is hoping to add a dramatic production in the fall. He'd like to continue adding art and music offerings, perhaps eventually centering the school's curriculum around the arts. No more black socks Goerke's leadership style combines professionalism and high expectations with a frankness and humor appreciated by teachers and students alike.