09/14/2026
We love to see the different ways students engage with music. For the students in Mrs. Saquil's autism classroom at Saul Martinez Elementary School in Mecca, CA, the sensory aspects of controlled vibration and touch are particularly important. We recently partnered with DonorsChoose and others to provide these students a variety of instruments to enhance their learning. Read more in the teacher's note below. We loved reading the kids' thank-you cards and wanted to with you!
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Dear Frederic Bacon-Shone Memorial Fund,
Thank you for helping me give my students the opportunity to enjoy and explore the sounds and vibrations of music.
I teach in an autism classroom. Many of my students benefit from sensory input that is predictable, engaging, and motivating. Musical instruments provide a safe and meaningful way for students to express themselves, participate with peers, and practice important skills across the school day.
The instruments funded through this project are being used during music-based lessons, sensory regulation breaks, social skills groups, and transitions. Students have opportunities to make choices, follow simple rhythms, take turns, and interact with classmates in a supportive environment.
Thank you so much! I am always so amazed as I watch how our Donors Choose community comes through! I am writing to share the meaningful impact that musical instruments have had for my students. Incorporating structured, purposeful music experiences into our daily routine has become a powerful instructional and therapeutic tool that supports our students' academic, social, and emotional growth.
Many of our students have limited verbal communication skills. Musical instruments provide an alternative way for them to express themselves. Through rhythm, sound, and movement, students are able to communicate preferences, participate in group activities, and engage with their peers in ways that traditional instruction does not always allow.
Music has also played a key role in increasing student engagement and attention. When instruments are introduced, we consistently see higher levels of participation, improved focus, and longer periods of sustained interaction. Students who may typically struggle to remain engaged are often motivated and excited to join in when music is involved.
In addition, musical activities support the development of important skills such as following directions, turn-taking, and motor coordination. Whether students are tapping a drum, shaking a maraca, or using instruments during structured lessons, they are practicing fine and gross motor skills while also building social connections with their classmates.
Music also helps regulate emotions and behavior. For many of our students, sensory input from instruments can be calming and provide a structured outlet for self-regulation. This has contributed to a more positive classroom environment and has supported students in transitioning between activities more successfully.
Overall, the inclusion of musical instruments has significantly enhanced our students' learning experiences. It provides them with opportunities to communicate, connect, and succeed in ways that are meaningful and accessible to their individual needs.
Thank you for your continued support of our classroom and our students. These instruments provide them the opportunity to engage with touch and sound to add hands-on, sensory dimensions to the music they already love so much.
With gratitude,
Mrs. Saquil
