MALCOLM X SCHOOL
1731 PRINCE STREET * 644-6313 * CHERYL CHINN, PRINCIPAL
The Malcolm X community considers its school exceptional, and Principal Cheryl Chinn knows the reason why. "Programs," she says without hesitation. "And it's teachers who make the programs. Our teachers are the best."
As the "School of Music, Art and Drama," Malcolm X School continues to challenge and delight young performers (and their families) with its programs:
- School-wide drama -- with a component specifically designed for each grade, from the creation of imaginary characters in kindergarten to full-scale Shakespearean productions for the upper grades. Performances will go "on tour," whether to local churches or senior centers, or farther afield.
- Gilbert and Sullivan -- this unique combination of strong academics and operatic singing continues its 25-year tradition as it adapts to younger grades.
- Art -- covering everything from basic principles to set design, with a full-time teacher in residence.
- Music -- the jewel in Malcolm X's crown. Older children participate in the school's formal music groups, including chamber music, regular and jazz bands, while all the children in grades K-3 work with our Orff/Kodaly specialist. After the third grade all children participate in grade-level choruses.
At Malcolm X School, learning takes place both within the classroom and "beyond the four walls." Field trips become tools of instruction as students plan budgets, research the site they will visit, and keep journals and logs. Community service is another aspect of "learning beyond the four walls." At each grade students engage in service projects, from sharing with senior citizens to participation in shoreline restoration. To ensure that every student can take advantage of this vigorous education, Malcolm X offers a wide range of support services, including both the individual counseling and tutoring that afford all children the opportunity to succeed.
Beehive of planning and programs that the school may be, its mood remains serene. "What I love about Malcolm X School is the feeling of peace and well-being that comes over you when you walk in the front door," says parent Christina Hecht. "You hear the music floating up from the practice rooms downstairs, and from the open doors of the classrooms, the buzz of children and teachers hard at work." Parent Ann Aoyagi's favorite place is the library, with its carpet and huge fireplace.
Parents speak knowledgeably about the school. As Principal Chinn says, "Our motto, Together We Can, isn't just words. It's the way we get things done, all of us working together -- staff, students and parents. That's what makes us so strong." As for the future, Chinn puts it succinctly. "We intend to be the very best!"
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