Hobbs Municipal Schools

“The only source of knowledge is experience.” 

-Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein at the end of his life had one of the largest brains on record. What made his brain different than everyone else? Was he born with a giant brain… or did the experiences of his life have a lot to do with it. Einstein studied physics as a profession and is most famous for his calculation of E = MC². He also made music a huge part of his life. He was known for playing the violin when he really wanted to focus on a problem. Albert Einstein knew what modern brain researchers are finding out today - activities like music grow the brain.

According to the renowned brain researcher, Eric Jensen, the teacher is the number one factor in the success of students in school. Uncaring or unqualified teachers would be the number one reason for a student’s failure at school. Quality hands-on instruction in art, music, theatre arts and dance grow brain cells. Inadequate and disengaged teaching shrinks the brain. Your Missoula Children’s Theatre directors know how a student’s brain works and this is why the students are able to pull off a “miracle” in a week. Although you cannot see it, your student’s brain can grow (called neurogenesis) within five days of a highly engaged activity like putting on a full musical theater production in a week with their fellow students.

So why are experiences like Missoula Children’s Theatre Musicals important for students? Yes, they are really fun. Yes, they are challenging. No doubt, the arts bring many things to the educational process. However, the most important reason is - it grows brain cells. I applaud the parents, teachers and principals for doing their part in helping their students grow their brain by encouraging them to audition for the Missoula Children’s Theatre Production this week.

Tyson Ledgerwood Elementary Fine Arts Coordinator Hobbs Municipal Schools

Brain research information based on Eric Jensen’s findings in Teaching with the Brain in Mind