The magic inside room 122

Brooke Ellis and CC Lodge

Christina Senita is known around Dulaney High School for her role as the school’s chorus director. What many may not know is that Senita teaches music to the students in Dulaney’s Functional Academic Learning Support and Communication And Learning Support (FALs/CALs) program during period 2A. The students in the FALs and CALs program generate a uniquely positive environment as they freely express themselves with music. 

The American Music Therapy Association has provided research supporting connections between different elements of music with enhanced speech, motor skills, memory, mood, attention, behavior and student interaction. Senita uses a mixture of American Sign Language (ASL) and repetitive lyrics to link music with learning. In her classroom, there are many opportunities for students to participate and be themselves within a supportive community. 

Annually, Dulaney’s winter assembly allows the students in the FALs/CALs program  to showcase their hard work. Some of the students created a dance to “That’s What Makes You Beautiful” by One Direction and some of the students played the drums. They received a standing ovation from the crowd.

“They chose the music, song  and how they are going to perform it. It’s an opportunity for them to have their own voice in how they are going to present themselves, and a way to feel a part of the Dulaney community,” Senita said. 

If a student does not want to participate each class period, they are not required to. 

”Every behavior is a communication. Whether in FALs/CALs, or any other class. If there is something a student is refusing to do, there’s a reason for that. Is there something I can do to modify their experience? Do they just need a break? Goodness knows we all just need a day off,” Senita said. 

During class, students are free to express themselves while learning through music combined with games – an opportunity for students to learn while having fun. Students laugh, smile and sing along throughout the period. From name games to robot dance offs, the positivity in the classroom is contagious.

“Without fail, 99.9% of the time that I’ve taught them, I end up in a better mood at the end of class than I was before. They’re genuinely loving and want to be a good friend to people.” Senita said. 

Students shared some of their favorite parts about the class. Tatum Pursel enjoys playing and learning about different instruments. Terrel Hall loves dance parties and spending time with Mrs. Senita. Layla Madison’s two favorite parts of class are the welcoming name song and thank you farewell son7g. Cara Beaufelter can’t pick a favorite part of class because she loves every moment. 

As Senita said, ”The more our school can embrace them as part of their classmates and student body, I think the stronger we all can be. They’re just magic.”