Music in Catholic Schools

Music in Catholic Schools (MCS) is a band program under the direction of the Superintendent of Schools, Omaha Archdiocese. In 1979, the MCS band program began when a predecessor company folded. Under the direction of the Superintendent of Schools, Sr. Genevieve Schillo, and Sister Marie Juan Maney, Coordinator of Music at St. Cecilia's, the group of parents serving as a Steering Committee became the first MCS Governing Board. Mrs. Barbara Sanders, teacher and coordinator, and Mrs. Debra Lund, teacher served the 200+ students in the 20 schools that participated. In 1982, more Catholic elementary schools and 5 Lutheran schools, joined MCS.

The number of students served grew to well over 400 each year. Currently, 26 Catholic schools and 5 Lutheran schools are served by the three full-time teachers, and 1 4/5 time administrator that make up the staff of Music in Catholic Schools. Duchesne Academy also contracts with Music in Catholic Schools to provide a band class.

Music in Catholic Schools provides a complete band curriculum to students enrolled within each participating school, and provides enriching instrumental activities for all students who are involved. Music in Catholic Schools nurtures musical growth, creativity, social skills, communication skills, self-concepts, and life-affirming values, such as self-discipline, self-esteem, respect, and responsibility. Music in Catholic Schools enables students to learn basic music fundamentals that are life-long, enriching skills benefiting all God’s people.