Mark Wood

Electric violinist Mark Wood

Mark Wood, an original violinist for the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, brought his music education program to students at five Tucson Unified School District campuses.

β€œElectrify Your Orchestra” worked with stringed instrument students at Booth Fickett K-8, Gridley Middle School, Magee Middle School, Secrist Middle School and Sabino High School.

Wood’s program partners with educators, aiming to inspire students, boost self-esteem and motivate energetic stage presentation.

To prepare for a final concert with students, Wood teaches students improvisation, composition, and personal expression on their violins, violas, cellos and basses.

Wood also uses Electrify Your Orchestra to help connect the worlds of classical and contemporary music.

The TUSD master classes culminated with a performance Thursday night at Sabino High School.

Financial literary lessons

Santa Clara Elementary School received some special financial literacy lessons thanks to Junior Achievement of Arizona.

On Thursday’s β€œJA Day,” the nonprofit took over Santa Clara to teach students the importance of financial literacy, readiness for work, and entrepreneurship. Volunteers visited every class to teach the students.

Nearly 25 staff members from Wells Fargo Bank volunteered to visit the classes. The bank also provided funding for JA Day totaling $25,000.

Santa Clara, at 6910 S. Santa Clara Ave. in Sunnyside Unified School District, serves 441 students in grades kindergarten through sixth, according to the Arizona Department of Education.

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