Fine Arts
PE: Welcome to Polly Ryon Middle School's dynamic Physical Education program, where fitness meets fun under the expert guidance of Coach Staff and Coach Minkel. Our PE classes, held in our state-of-the-art gymnasium, offer students a diverse range of activities designed to promote both physical health and teamwork. Students engage in exciting games like kickball and pickleball, alongside a variety of sports and invigorating workout routines. Our program not only enhances students' physical abilities but also instills a lifelong appreciation for active living. Join us and discover the joy of movement and the spirit of sportsmanship at Polly Ryon Middle School!
Theatre: The Theatre program, led by Mrs. Henry, introduces students to a diverse array of speaking situations and provides a fundamental understanding of theatre. Participants learn essential theatre preparation techniques, explore methods of nonverbal communication, and improve their vocal and physical control. The curriculum covers a wide range of theatrical content, offering students opportunities to perform both in class and in stage productions.
Choir: Mrs. Humphries, our dedicated choir director, oversees all aspects of the choir program at Polly Ryon Middle School. Choir classes are held daily, concentrating on the ongoing development of essential musical skills introduced in elementary school. These classes also focus on building fundamental choral performance abilities. The Beginning Choir classes showcase their talents in concerts for parents and the public. Additionally, they take part and perform in various programs and events throughout the year.
Band: Mr. Phillips is our band director, and he instructs students in the fundamentals of tone production, music literacy, sight-reading, and self-evaluation as young musicians by fostering the Studio Habits of Mind. Additionally, students learn cooperation, collaboration, and active participation. The performance requirements for Band include participation in winter and/or spring concerts.
Orchestra: Mr. Parker leads our Beginning Orchestra program, where instruction on stringed instruments starts in the sixth grade with classes grouped by similar instruments. The beginner string orchestra offers students foundational training in the care and handling of their instruments and the basics of producing sound. Students learn essential music fundamentals to help them identify and use musical symbols and terms. They are also guided on how to assess their performance as budding musicians through the development of Studio Habits of Mind. Emphasis is placed on fostering cooperation and self-discipline. Performance requirements for Orchestra course include participating in winter and/or spring concerts.
Art: Mrs. Stevens, our Art teacher, has designed this course to help students enhance their problem-solving and creative thinking abilities. The course aims to teach students how to perceive the world around them, express emotions through different artistic media, and critically evaluate both their own artwork and that of other artists. Throughout the course, students will delve into the fundamental elements of art and design principles, using a range of media and techniques that encompass both traditional and contemporary styles. Students might need to purchase certain materials, such as an art kit or supplies, and in some cases, an art fee may be applicable. Additionally, sketchbooks are a required component of the course.
Kickstart: Polly Ryon's Kickstart Program, led by Sensei Buras, provides exceptional martial arts instruction to students during the school day as part of the Kickstart Kids initiative. This program supports adolescents as they navigate the challenging middle and high school years.
During this critical period of personal development and important life decisions, the Kickstart Kids curriculum emphasizes the importance of community, achievement, and healthy lifestyle choices. It lays a strong foundation for character development by instilling values such as discipline, responsibility, kindness, respect, courage, dedication, honesty, and loyalty.