Junior Alyssa Burgois is one of many people who is making a difference in the community. Combining her love for helping others with her passion for music, Burgois implemented a music program entitled “Everybody Deserves Music.” The program teaches students essential music comprehension and social skills.

“I make up a lesson plan per week [for] the students,” Burgois said. “We learn about note notations, rhythms, and we even play games and have in depth conversations about differences in genres, as well as how time periods affected music.”

Setting the class in motion required some effort, as initiating the program required approval from the school, providing factual, scientific support for the idea that music can not only help special education students, but students of all kinds by improving their cognitive skills. Within a week, though, Burgois’s class was in session, teaching a wide range of students about music. Not only is she teaching children about music, is also beginning to see improvement in their social and comprehensive skills. Students are speaking more frequently among their peers, whether it is social or based on the music theory that they learned in class.

“One student was able to write ‘Jingle Bells’ all by herself, without anyone’s help,” Burgois said. “We have seen a student talk more than he has in lessons, [and] we have also seen students comprehend the different genres of music to the point that they can tell you the genre, the time period, and how it differs from other pieces.”

There’s also another motivating factor behind the project, originating from her personal background.

“My cousin is eight years old, he has learning disabilities and I’ve seen him struggle with his life,” Burgois said.

Having seen an opportunity to give back to students like her cousin, she took it. By doing this, she has made a positive impact on their lives as they continue to learn about music, while strengthening their cognitive skills.

“Music has taught me how to make friendships as well as how to work hard for something you really want,” Burgois said. “I strongly believe that everyone deserves that opportunity.”