As you step into Katelyn Roberts’ music class at Eagle Crest Elementary, the sound of ukuleles strumming and children’s voices rising in harmony fills the air. The room is alive with the energy of students discovering the joy of music. Roberts, a graduate of St. Vrain Valley Schools, now teaches in the district that once nurtured her passion for music.

For Roberts, teaching is a calling shaped by her own personal experiences. “I didn’t realize how rich of a musical upbringing I had until I reflected on it while I was in college,” she said. “Growing up surrounded by music, with supportive parents and inspiring teachers, I felt naturally drawn to the field of music education.” Her journey through St. Vrain took her from a graduate at Skyline High to student teaching at Prairie Ridge Elementary, and now, to Eagle Crest, where she has built strong community connections.

Roberts’ teaching approach is rooted in the Kodály method, which emphasizes learning through singing, movement and solfege – a way to teach singing by using special syllables for each note. “Less talking, more doing,” she says with a smile, encouraging her students to engage with music in a hands-on way. Every lesson is carefully planned to make music both accessible and enjoyable for all.

Among the programs Roberts is most excited about is Eagle Crest’s first-ever Baile Folklórico, a dance class led by community members that celebrates the cultural diversity of the school’s families. “Dancing creates a sense of belonging,” said Roberts. “It highlights the importance of cultural connection, especially for students whose primary language at home is Spanish.”

In addition to building community, Roberts directs the Eagle Crest Ringers, the first handchime choir in the district. Recently featured in Overtones magazine, the ensemble meets every Thursday morning with 23 students arriving early to make music together. Roberts is also proud to bring students each year to the prestigious Colorado Elementary All-State Choir, where they have the opportunity to sing with peers from across the state.

Roberts understands firsthand the power of music to transform lives. After a neurological event in 2020 left her temporarily unable to walk or speak properly, music played a key role in her recovery. “Singing helped my fluency, and playing instruments helped me rebuild coordination,” she shares. Her experience has only deepened her belief in the benefits of music education — not just for academic growth, but for personal resilience.

Looking ahead, Roberts hopes every student in her classroom will find joy and connection through music. “My goal is to make sure that every child, no matter how they show up, has access to that magic,” she said.