When Ottumwa Community School District music teacher Ms. Abree Russell saw how her students lit up around rhythm and technology, she knew she wanted to bring something new into the classroom, something that connected their world to the world of music education. 

In 2022, Ms. Russel received a Classroom Champions Teacher Mini Grant to purchase turntables, DJ controllers, launchpads, and turntable training wax, tools that invite students to create music rather than just listen to it. For many, it’s their first time experimenting with modern mixing equipment, where curiosity quickly turns into creativity. 

“The difference between watching a video and actually experiencing something is huge,” Abree said. “I can show them videos of DJs, but they’ll be more engaged and excited to learn if I put a turntable in front of them.” 

As music standards evolve, finding ways to keep older elementary students motivated can be a challenge. Yet, studies show that hands-on music-making boosts confidence, problem-solving, and collaboration, especially when students can explore music styles they already enjoy. 

Ms. Russell’s classroom is a space where students are encouraged to experiment, collaborate, and learn through doing. The new equipment helps them see that music isn’t just about reading notes on a page but about creating, expressing, and connecting. Her hope is that this hands-on exposure to different types of music will inspire students to keep exploring, whether in future school programs or simply as lifelong music fans. 

“I want students to understand and appreciate all types of music and encourage them to be involved throughout their lives,” Ms. Russell shared. “By giving them opportunities to experience different styles, I hope they’ll fall in love with music in their own way.” 

The Classroom Champions Teacher Mini Grant, a grant program through the Legacy Foundation, helps local educators like Abree bring big ideas to life and ensure creativity, curiosity, and joy stay at the heart of learning.