"Music is a great way to express your thoughts and feelings," said musician Matt Wheeler in a video message to students at Donegal Primary School. "And it's simply fun!"

For the third year, Wheeler offered "Music Mondays with Mr. Matt" to kindergarten, first-grade and second-grade students at the school. Once a month during morning announcements, students were treated to a short video from Wheeler, with an original song he wrote focusing on vocabulary from the school's social-emotional learning curriculum. Topics included exploring emotions, self-control and problem-solving. Wheeler wrapped up the program with a school-wide concert June 5.

"This has been a great way for kids to connect the vocabulary they learn in their lessons," said kindergarten teacher Kim Garner, who first reached out to Wheeler about the music program for the 2020-21 school year. "We know that kids learn well through music, and they enjoyed watching and listening to Matt. He ad libs and has a lesson before the song, so they know what's coming."

Garner emphasized that Wheeler's lessons complemented what she and her colleagues were teaching in the classroom. "He was able to reinforce the lessons in a very calm but inviting way that provided a different voice than their teacher's to help them understand the concepts they were learning," she stated.

Music teacher Taylor Morgan noted that the program wouldn't be possible without the support of a grant from the Donegal Foundation. The grant has provided instruments for students and books for classrooms as well as funding the video lessons.

Students at Donegal Primary School called Wheeler's lessons fun and entertaining. "My favorite part is seeing Mr. Matt playing instruments," said second-grader Haven Grundza. "I remember when he taught us what it means to be grateful."

Fellow second-grader Gaige Lewis said Wheeler presented information that students can apply to their lives. "I liked that he taught us about being kind to our friends," Gaige remarked. "I also liked the song that he wrote about kindness."

Garner shared that the school plans to continue Wheeler's music lessons next year, adding, "Even though it's once a month, it has been very impactful."