Eastmont 5th graders watch the Wenatchee Valley Symphony Orchestra and Classical Kids Music Education perform Tchaikovsky Discovers America at the Numerica Performing Arts Center.
Last month, every Eastmont 5th grader spent an afternoon at the Numerica Performing Arts Center in Wenatchee, experiencing “Tchaikovsky Discovers America”, a collaboration between the Wenatchee Valley Symphony Orchestra and Classical Kids Music Education. The performance blended live music with storytelling, bringing ballet classics like Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty to life for a packed house of Eastmont students and teachers.
As the lights dimmed, the audience buzzed: squeals of joy, gasps, and whispers of recognition when familiar music from The Nutcracker or even Home Alone filled the theater. Students leaned forward, some resting their chins on the balcony railing, eyes wide as dancers twirled across the stage. They applauded, bounced in their seats, pretended to conduct along with the orchestra, and shouted “bravo!” after the final songs. One student summed it up perfectly as they returned to their buses at the end of the day: “Okay, that was actually really good.”
District leaders believe these kinds of experiences matter. Caryn Metsker, Executive Director of Financial Services, noted that district-wide field trips are supported by levy dollars, which cover transportation and entry costs so all students can participate. She added that levy support also helps fund weekly elementary music instruction, ensuring every child experiences the arts both inside and outside the classroom.
Grant Elementary teacher Blake Morrell added that field trips connect classroom learning to the real world and help children develop curiosity, social skills, and empathy. “Live theater, in particular, is especially valuable for kids because it sparks imagination, builds empathy by allowing them to experience different perspectives, and fosters a love of the arts through the excitement of seeing stories come to life right in front of them.” Before the trip, he prepared students by telling them the performance would be meaningful no matter what, because for some it might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the symphony or attend the PAC.
From weekly music class in every elementary school to district-wide field trips like this one, Eastmont students continue to have opportunities to experience the arts, thanks in part to levy dollars that ensure every child has access.
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