^{The MIND (Music Intelligence Neural Development) Institute}

The MIND Institute ST Music + Math Program combines computer games and music keyboarding enabling students at all ability levels to master math concepts, procedures and develop problem solving skills aligned to state standards. The program is designed to use music as a bridge to build a better understanding of math reasoning. It allows students to build upon their areas of strength and increase vocabulary and mathematical reasoning ability. Olinda participates in this innovative program developed Dr. Gordon Shaw, from the University of California Irvine, along with other research scientists. Dr. Shaw's research on music and brain function made headlines in 1993 as the co-discoverer of the "Mozart Effect." His findings suggest that music training increases the ability to achieve success in math. Years of research by MIND Institute scientists have proven that music can enhance how we think and create through spatial temporal reasoning. This spatial temporal reasoning is crucial in the areas of math and science.

ST Math - Kindergarten through sixth grade students take part in weekly math instruction (aka JiJi) in the media center. Students work with specialized computer software in a game format to develop problem-solving skills. The program is aligned to the California Mathematics Content Standards. It develops math reasoning, trains students in multi-step problem-solving through visualization, and benefits students at every proficiency level. Children move through the math levels at their own pace and all students are showing dramatic gains in understanding of complex math concepts after using this program.

ST Music - TK/Kindergarten through sixth grade students take part in weekly enrichment piano keyboard lessons. 

This math/music program is available to only a few schools in the district and across the state. This is due to its initial high cost of implementation. Our school would like to recognize the Olinda PTO for their dedication in providing much of the funding for this program. The PTO continues to fund the annual renewal cost to provide the ST Math Program to our students.

If you are interested in learning more about the research or background behind the MIND Institute ST Math + Music Programs or would perhaps enjoy trying out some of the games that the students play in this program, please click HERE to visit the MIND website.

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