Joanne Pearson

List of 7 frequently asked questions.

• What sets an MC student apart from students in other schools?

  Their willingness to try new things! Doesn't matter what I've introduced; drums, hand bells, or recorders. I love watching each child discover what they are capable of doing!

• Why do you like teaching at Monte Cassino? What motivated you to become a teacher at Monte Cassino?

  I had previously taught in the Owasso Public Schools system for 6 years before coming to Monte Cassino. I was excited about teaching in a private school that allowed me to live out my Catholic faith through the weekly liturgies and in my own music class.

• What is a unique experience, talent or interest that you bring to your classroom to help shape the learning experience of your students?

  I love history and how that shapes who we are. The stories behind the music we sing add that extra spark of interest that inspires my students to love what they perform.

• What do you teach at Monte Cassino School?

  I teach Elementary School Music.

• What do you want your students to gain from having known you?

  Music is a fun and creative way to express yourself!

• What do you love about Monte Cassino School?

  MC is a wonderful place to teach; such a dedicated staff whose love and concern for each child comes through daily! All three of my girls attended MC and I was able to see, first hand, the commitment of bringing a well-rounded education combined with the Benedictine value of service to each and every child.

• What is one of your favorite lessons, subjects or projects that you teach at Monte Cassino?

  I really enjoy teaching about the songs of Woody Guthrie. Woody lived during the very difficult period of the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl. His music is a reflection of the times, the grit of the people who lived during those days, and belief that better days were ahead. We are extremely lucky that the Woody Guthrie Center is located here in Tulsa. The first graders are able to take a field trip to the center where we can see many important artifacts from Woody's life and we are thrilled to be able to go on stage and sing through all the Woody songs that we have learned in music class!