Teacher Feature: Tina Arenas

• Tina Arenas
• Posted 11/19/21
• 0 comments

Get to know our authors. In our  ”Teacher Feature,”  you will not only learn about our contributors’ professional endeavors but also get to know them as  humans  too.  Just like our readers – our authors are actively teaching in schools across the United States. 

Tina Arenas teaches early childhood music and movement at the American School of Dubai. Before teaching abroad, she taught elementary general music in Texas. Tina received her Master of Music Education from the University of St. Thomas and has completed both Kodály and Orff Schulwerk levels courses, in addition to movement masterclasses.  

Tina has presented workshops for teachers at international, national, and state music conferences, served as a cooperating teacher for student teachers, and performed as an educational artist-in-residence for universities. With over 20 years of classroom experience, Tina has developed a passion for making play a priority in teaching and learning, with a mission for children to feel creative and valued.  

Some interesting facts we learned about Tina…

How did you end up becoming a music teacher?

I was on track to becoming a band director in college, with trumpet being my primary instrument. However, that all changed when I observed an elementary music classroom my sophomore year. The children were crawling around doing a singing game about cats. You could just feel the creative energy — they were learning and having fun at the same time! From that point on, I listened to my heart and followed to become an elementary music teacher.  

Did a teacher influence your decision to enter education?

My mom always tells me that my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Rankins, said I would grow up to be a teacher. 21 years later, I’m still going strong!  

What inspires you to share your experiences with other teachers?

I think teachers are some of the most brilliant and giving humans. I believe we are truly better together. There are countless number of teachers who have guided me throughout the years (and still do). I just want to give back and be as helpful as I can to others. 

What is your favorite music teaching moment?

For me, I think it’s about the relationships formed over the years with students and their families. When we host music sharings at school, I love watching children and their families sing, dance, and play together.  

What has been the biggest surprise/revelation about being a music teacher?

In the beginning, I thought I held the key to all their musical knowledge, and it was my job to input as much as I could. Now I believe that children arrive as capable learners with their own personal musical experiences. My job is to guide their learning journey and create an environment where they feel valued, loved, and supported to let their creativity shine. I often learn more from my students than they do from me!  

How do you deal with stress?

Running, biking, swimming, gardening, going on hikes, being in nature.

Fun Facts About You?    

What is your favorite food?

Love Thai food and Tex Mex. 

What is your favorite style of music to listen to? 

Some of my favorites: Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind & Fire, Paul Simon, Angélique Kidjo

What is your favorite school-appropriate beverage — are you a cola or coffee drinker?  

Coffee, all the way!

We hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know Tina! Check out her Music ConstructED articles below.