Music at Mac

     With more than 1600 students in a building meant for only 1000, it's fair to say McLoughlin Middle School is a bit crowded.   It would be easy for students to feel lost. Fortunately hundreds of them have found a home in music. In 1998 there were roughly 400 students in grades 5-12 who were taking music classes in Pasco. That's 400 kids out of  ALL of Pasco's schools. Now McLoughlin alone boasts similar numbers just in one building.  McLoughlin Middle School is a shining example of something wonderful that's happening all over Pasco.   Pasco has been recognized six times for being one of the "BEST COMMUNITIES IN AMERICA" for support of music education ( in 2000, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2014) by the National Association of Music Merchants  (NAMM).   
     Pasco School District and our community has show again and again they are willing to support quality music programs.  More than  $50,000 a year has been spent providing quality instruments to students who otherwise couldn't afford them.  The enthusiasm of students and dedication of teachers can be seen at every turn.  If you've been to the July 4th parade in Pasco, you've seen just a small sample of the big things Pasco music classes are doing. In a few short weeks during the summer band program Pasco music teachers take several hundred students (some on instruments they have never even played) and turn them into a well organized, beautiful sounding marching band.

      How does Pasco do this? With great teachers. At the risk of sounding like we are tooting our own horn (little band humor for you), we'd like to give a shout out to a few of the amazing teachers we have right here at McLoughlin Middle School.

Sandra Parsons, strings
Nicholas Rice, guitar

Andrew James, music
Kurtis McFadden, choir
Kris Merkel, jazz band
James Bennet, band

These wonderful programs are made successful by amazing teachers. THANK YOU!  Here's what Mac kids are saying:

"Mr. Bennet is my favorite teacher. I learned a lot from him."

"Jazz band is a lot of fun and has made me a better musician."

"Mrs. Merkel is really energized and she makes people want to learn."

Mr. McFadden is intense. He makes us work really hard, but it's good."

"My music classes are the best part of school. I look forward to them every day."



Want to read about more amazing music/arts achievements in Pasco?  Click HERE.