THE ARTS 2025-26
Suzuki Violin and Viola Group Classes
Taught by
Jessica Chen
Fridays, 11:00-11:45 AM starting September 5
Instrument Petting Zoo Event: Students will be able to try out instruments, get measured for the correct sizing, and sign up for an instrument rental on that day itself. LA Violin Shop will also generously deliver instruments to EIE for free the following
Free Introduction Class & Instrument Petting Zoo with LA Violin Shop; Tuesday, September 2, 5:00-6:00
Make-up classes: The Monday and Friday classes both follow the same learning progression, so if you are unable to attend your class day, you may attend the other class day as a make-up class (limit of 2 classes per student).
MATERIALS:
- Violin/viola, bow, and case (rental special with LA Violin Shop; 4th month free)
- Shoulder rest, rosin, and cleaning cloth (FREE with rental from LA Violin Shop)
- Small notebook (ideally one that fits in the instrument case) and pencil
- Suzuki Volume 1 book & Suzuki Volume 1 audio recording:
- Violin audio: Purchase the recording (preferred), Youtube, Spotify
- Viola audio: Purchase the recording (preferred), Youtube, Spotify
COST:
- $350/semester (fall and spring) out of pocket
- $375/semester (fall and spring) using charter funds, through Home School Coaches
AGES: Ages 4 and up are welcome!
SUBJECT: Music (Suzuki Violin and Viola)
VENDOR: Jessica Chen, Horizon Music Studio; charter funds accepted through Home School Coaches
CLASS INFORMATION:
Kickstart your musical journey this year! Students will learn the basics of how to care for and hold their violins and violas, and will also learn several simple songs. This class will provide a basic introduction to playing violin and viola using the Suzuki Method, and all ages 4+ and all levels are welcome. Students are highly encouraged to enroll in weekly private lessons alongside this group class. Students will learn violin and viola following principles from the Suzuki Method. Group classes and lessons are taught by Ms. Jessica Chen, an experienced violin and viola teacher with extensive teacher training in the Suzuki Method.
The Suzuki Method
At the heart of the Suzuki Method are the core beliefs that music education serves as a powerful vehicle for character development, and that every child has the ability to develop musical ability. Also called the “mother-tongue method”, Dr. Suzuki’s innovative approach to music learning follows the steps of language acquisition: listening, speaking (playing), and then reading. In the Suzuki Method, learning music is a family experience through the ‘Suzuki Triangle’ partnership between teacher, parents, and student.
In the Suzuki Method:
- Parents play an active role in the learning process by attending lessons, group classes, and supporting home practice and listening
- Students listen to music and practice at home regularly to support growth and learning to play by ear; students learn to read music after building comfort with the instrument
- Musical development is cultivated step by step in a nurturing environment, and the learning process is celebrated at each step along the way
- Students perform with joy and confidence, with regular performance opportunities in both solo and group settings
Parents should attend the group class as active observers and will learn how to support practicing at home. To learn more about the Suzuki Method and individual violin & viola lessons, please visit www.horizon-music-studio.com
For registration & questions, contact: jessica@horizon-music-studio.com
MISSION IMPROVable
Taught by Ani Janbazian

Wednesdays
2:45 – 3:45

DATES:
- Semester 1 runs Sept -Dec 2025
- Semester 2 runs Jan-may 2026
COST PER SEMESTER :
- $296 (discount given to those who pay for class in full on day of registration).
- We are an approved vendor for most area Charter schools. If not, we’ll contact you to start the vendor process for your school!
- Upon registration, you will be provided with a simple materials list of some basic school supplies that will be needed for class.
TARGET: Grades 5-7
SUBJECT: Drama/Theater
VENDOR: We Spark Learning
COURSE DURATION: 1 year (two, 13 week semesters)
Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to experience improv exercises that will build confidence, boost focus, encourage teamwork and communication, all while having a blast playing theatre games!
WHAT IS IMPROV?
Improvisational theater, often called “Improv”, is a form of drama, in which most of what is performed is unplanned or unscripted and usually comedic.
WHY IMPROV?
The unpredictable and spontaneous nature of theater games and improv exercises create a thrilling sense of anticipation and excitement for participants. But beyond the fun, there are truly positive benefits for join a class like this:
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Risk Taking
- Quick Thinking
- Imagination
- Self Awareness
- Concentration
- Confidence
- Problem Solving
- Social-Emotional Adaptability
- Flexibility
- Public Speaking
So, our theater games indeed have a mission!
Are you ready to take on this mission IMPROVable?
This message will self destruct in 5,4,3,2,1…
REGISTRATION: Opens on April 10th. Simply complete the form for either private-payment or charter families at WeSparkLearning.com Charter School students should follow up with a request a P.O./Enrichment Certificate to be issued as soon as possible to complete your registration with us.
Questions? Call (626)482-8963 or email WeSparkLearning@yahoo.com
American History Through Music!
(Songs & Stories!)
Taught by:
Carolyn Forte

FRIDAY
1:00 – 2:00
Appropriate for grades K-8. Older music lovers are welcome! Younger children are welcome with a parent.
Traditional American songs, which include folk songs from around the world, were once known by every schoolchild. Although they are foundational to an understanding of American literature, culture and history, our public schools dropped almost all of them in the 1970s, along with the fun and historical understanding they include.
In this class we will learn traditional songs from American history and the history/stories behind them. We will do a lot of singing, clapping and moving with great music while learning about American History. Carolyn majored in Music History and has been a song leader for several decades. End your week with music, fun and history!
COST: $100 per semester (ask about family discounts)
LEARN SCRIPTURE THROUGH MUSIC
By Carolyn Forte

FRIDAY
2:00 – 2:30
How many Bible verses do you and your children have memorized? It’s easy when it’s put to music! Join us for a family sing-a-long at EIE. Carolyn taught Sunday School music for many years and has a large collection of songs that teach Bible verses. All ages are welcome.
Class will begin as soon as we have at least 3-4 people.signed up.
FREE
Sign up with Carolyn at EIE: 626-821-0025
Elementary Art
Taught by
Cindra Barnes

Friday
10:00 – 11:00
Session Starts: Friday September 12
Cost: $230 per semester (all materials included) $
Age appropriate: 7 – 10 and for grades 2 – 5
Description: This class will explore fun and creative ways to use different art mediums. This class is part art instructional and part DYI. The students will be introduced to different mediums and use them to create something unique and purposeful. Students will gain basic knowledge of art and art forms while progressing at their own rate and releasing their creativity. Some of the mediums to explore will be tempera, watercolor, tissue paper, clay, wax paper, chalk, and graphite. Some of the creations will consist of stain glass, popsicle sticks, foam, glass magnets, recyclables, origami, and much more. The fun will be elevated with category contests and displays if enough students participate.
Contact: Cindra Barnes for information and questions at:
schoolhouseofthegroves@yahoo.com or TEXT attention SHG 909-993-2203
NOTES Class size limited
We do not accept Charter funds at this time
Middle School Art
Taught by
Cindra Barnes

Friday
11:00 – 12:00
Session Starts: Friday Sept 12
Cost: $230.00 per semester (all materials included)
Age appropriate: 11 – 14 and for grades 6 – 9
Description: This class will explore more advanced fun and creative ways to use different art mediums. This class is part art instructional and part DYI. The students will be introduced to different mediums and art forms and use them to create something unique and purposeful. Students will gain basic knowledge of art and art forms while progressing at their own rate and releasing their creativity.
Some of the mediums to explore will be acrylic, batik, ceramics, plaster, organics, mosaics, chalk and dye. Some of the creations will consist of clothing, canvas, recyclables, balloons, car bots, boats and much more.
The fun will be elevated with category contests and displays if enough students participate.
Contact:
- Cindra Barnes for information and questions at:
- schoolhouseofthegroves@yahoo.com or
- TEXT attention SHG 909-993-2203
NOTES
- Class size limited
- We do not accept Charter funds at this time.