about the LKR teacher program

What is Little Kids Rock?
Little Kids Rock (LKR) is a non-profit organization founded by a former public school teacher that brings free music classes and musical instruments to children in our public schools, replacing programs that have been eliminated due to budget cuts. LKR revitalizes music education through a modern curriculum which reflects popular music styles such as rock, funk, blues, rap and hip-hop, and celebrates our student’s diverse cultural backgrounds. Little Kids Rock Students learn how to compose, perform and record their own music, providing them a positive channel for their energies, nurturing their creativity, and building confidence and self-esteem.

What is the LKR teacher Program?
The LKR teacher Program is designed to give teachers the tools to introduce an exciting music curriculum to their students.The LKR pedagogy and techniques have proven to bring creative musical expression into young people’s lives. As part of the LKR Teacher Program, teachers are trained during a Music Workshop and gain access to the following resources:

• Free guitars for students!
• Free lesson plans
• Songs to teach in the classroom
• Instructional CDs
• Free CDs with songs written and performed by LKR students
• Support for recording students' music at the end of the year
• Access to on-line resources!

What is LKR's Approach to Music Education?
Little Kids Rock’s approach to music education is innovative and dynamic. Our curriculum is student centered and teacher-friendly! It focuses on popular musical styles such as rock, blues, country and funk. Students learn how to play and COMPOSE their own, original music. Click here to hear samples!

What is a LKR teacher Workshop?
A Little Kids Rock Teacher Workshop is a free training program designed by teachers for teachers. During the workshop, teachers are trained as a Little Kids Rock Teacher and learn an exciting method for teaching music students. We offer workshops in guitar and drums. During all of our workshops, we focus on improvisation, composition and vocal music.

What kind of teachers are you seeking?
We are seeking committed, professional teachers currently working in the public school system and serving communities of under-privileged students grades K-8. Basic musical skill is important. Enthusiasm and a love of music and children are even more important.

What level of musical proficiency is required?
Our teacher-training program is designed for public school teachers with basic musical proficiency. We don’t expect our mentors to be virtuosi. The main thing is that you are an enthusiastic classroom teacher. If you have a basic facility on your instrument and can count to four we can train you to teach students to play the music they love. Instruments that we support include: guitar, drums, bass, keyboard, harmonica and vocal music.

What do teachers get from the training?
During the training, teachers will receive intensive training, a comprehensive curriculum, a supporting CD of instructional tracks, and ongoing support throughout the school year. The workshop trains teachers on methods to teach students to play chords, count rhythms, compose songs, play in ensemble, and unleash their creativity.

What do teachers get after the training?
Upon completion of the training a teacher is certified as a Little Kids Rock Music Mentor. Each music mentor gets a set of guitars to teach an LKR class at his / her school. Mentors also receive ongoing support for the class such as help with song charts, special events and guest artist visits. Through the generosity of music industry donors LKR is also able to provide Mentors with music software and occasionally provides other useful goodies.

What are the requirements for becoming a Little Kids Rock Teacher?

To become a Little Kids Rock teacher, you must be:

1. A full-time public school teacher
2. Able to attend the two-day workshop for your district.
3. Able to play at least 5 chords on the guitar
4. Willing and able to offer a guitar class to students at your school. Classes must meet at least once a week: before, during or after school hours.
5. Ready to have a SERIOUSLY good time!

Are LKR music teachers paid?
Participation in the LKR Teacher Program is voluntary. No pay is available at this time. We encourage all teachers to seek compensation for their time teaching music from sources such as Extended Day Programs, PTA, local arts enrichment programs and other appropriate sources. Documentation and support can be provided for teachers seeking funding.

How do I apply to become a Little Kids Rock Teacher?
Fill out the online application by clicking here.
If you cannot access our online application contact us.

How do I find out more?
Contact us at any of our locations.