In summer 2024, band teacher Nikki Millmann and SUNY Fredonia professor Travis Gratteau-Zinnel began integrating Dr. Gholdy Muhammad’s Historically Responsive Literacy into the 4th and 5th grade band program. With support from a NYSSMA action research grant, they met weekly throughout the year to plan, reflect, and reimagine band instruction through the lens of Muhammad’s HILL model.
The project culminated in the May 29 BJM Instrumental Music Concert, featuring This Little Light of Mine and an original student composition, performed by all BJM band and string students. It was a joyful celebration of student brilliance and creative expression. Go Tigers!
BJM Band Program Integrates Historically Responsive Literacy Framework
May 30, 2025