How One PE Teacher's DJ Skills Created a Safe Haven for Students

from Homeroom Attendance · host Edward DeShazer

Dustin Thomas shares his journey from UPS worker to PE teacher and DJ, demonstrating how to create an inclusive school culture through music and movement in a diverse elementary school setting.• Overcoming personal dislike of school to become an educator in his 15th year• Using culturally responsive approaches to connect with 300+ ELL students • Learning key phrases in Haitian Creole to communicate with immigrant students• Replacing traditional whistle-based PE instruction with music as a universal language• Creating "Rhythm and Roots" program after three students lost their drummer father• Evolving from bucket drumming to a full recording studio through grant funding• Transforming school program into "Dropping the Beat" 501(c)(3) nonprofit• Identifying student interests to develop relevant after-school programs• Leading from current position without waiting for formal leadership titles• Finding resources through community partnerships and grant writingVisit www.droppingthebeat.com to learn more about this innovative program bringing music education to underserved communities.www.homeroomattendance.com

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This episode was published on September 7, 2025.

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