Giving Tuesday at Lincoln Prep

As we all know, middle school can be one of the most challenging and transformative times in a young person’s life. Between academic pressures, social changes, and the growing pains of adolescence, middle school students often face challenges that can be difficult to navigate without support. This is where Dr. Rodriguez’s work has been a game-changer—especially during the past 10 years as a music teacher here at Lincoln Prep.

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For a decade, Dr. Rodriguez has been a guiding force for his students, using music to help them grow as musicians and build the skills, confidence, and emotional resilience they need to thrive during these crucial years.

“Music instruction is more than just learning notes and rhythms,” says Dr. Rodriguez. “When students engage with music, they are engaging their whole brain. It is a powerful way to develop memory, problem-solving skills, and emotional intelligence—all critical at this stage in their lives.”

Dr. Rodriguez believes music is an invaluable platform for students to learn valuable life skills.  Whether performing in an ensemble, learning a new instrument, or preparing for a concert, his students learn the value of hard work, perseverance, and handling success and setbacks. These lessons are invaluable during the middle school years when students are developing the tools to navigate not only school but also their personal lives.

Dr. Rodriguez’s influence doesn’t end when his middle schoolers leave his classroom, he also serves as a Senior Thesis Advisor. This role allows him to continue guiding students through the later stages of their academic journey, often working with students who were once in his middle school music class. “It’s incredibly rewarding to watch my former middle school students develop into these knowledgeable and well-articulated seniors; their growth from middle school to the end of high school is incredible. Seeing them come full circle is a reminder of how music and mentorship can truly shape a young person’s development,” he shares.

We are incredibly grateful for Dr. Rodriguez’s unwavering commitment to our students, and we thank him for the positive impact he has had on so many young lives.

Thank you also to the families who support our Community Investment campaign at Lincoln Prep! Together, we can continue to provide students with the educational experience they need to not only survive but truly thrive during these crucial years of their lives.

Do you have a story or know of a story that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts? Please contact jason.moore@greathearts.org.