Essentials
At Grant Ranch, our Grizzlies have the opportunity to engage in Art, Music, and PE. Read more about our essentials programing below:
Visual Arts -The Visuals Arts program at Grant Ranch is facilitated by Erin Lea-Dougherty, aka “Mrs. Erin.” This Arts program has a central focus on the creative process (brainstorm, plan, make, edit, share) that empowers our young artists to take creative risks while flexing a growth mindset. Our young artists here at GRS take inspiration from a wide variety of contemporary and historical artists, many of which are local Denver creatives! These “mentor” artists exemplify how to create community and stand up for what is right (social justice) using their art as their voice. Our young artists will get to explore a variety of materials and skills including, but not limited to: painting, drawing & illustration, fiber art (like sewing & weaving), sculpture, and clay.
Physical Education: Students will learn about and participate in different activities, games, and sports while becoming more fit and using good sportsmanship!
Music
- Choir – Trimester Class, students will sing every day and learn about music theory and vocal technique, arranging and composing music, and how to accompany themselves on the Ukulele. Students will perform in a concert at the end of the trimester.
- Modern Band Class – This would be a class that focuses on learning to play, perform on, and compose with modern band instruments (drums, guitar, bass, keyboard, vocals)
- 5th Grade Band – This is our beginning band. Instruments offered are flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and percussion. We give at least two concerts per year. Students in beginning band are eligible to audition for the DPS Citywide Festival
- Advanced Band – This class is offered as a PBL this year and is open to middle school students who have a year or more experience on their instrument. We give 2-3 concerts per year. Students in advanced band are eligible to audition for the DPS Citywide Festival, participate in the DPS Solo/Ensemble Festival, and in the DPS Band Showcase.
- Exploratory Music – This class is open to all middle school students and takes a Modern Band approach to our state standards. Students will learn the basics of ukulele or guitar, drum set (percussion), bass, keyboard, and vocals. We will focus on performing music, music theory, creating music, and analyzing/discussing music.