Our Academics & Programs

The Longfellow Fine Arts Magnet Program envisions a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where every student discovers, develops, and celebrates their artistic potential. Through the disciplines of Band, Choir, Dance, Art, and Orchestra, we strive to cultivate creativity, confidence, and collaboration—empowering students to express themselves with purpose and passion. Our vision is to nurture well-rounded individuals who appreciate the arts as a vital part of academic excellence, cultural awareness, and lifelong learning.

We look forward to meeting you!  

Ms. Tilmon, Magnet Team Lead

Ktilmon@houstionisd.org

 

 

Our choir program offers a rich and dynamic music education rooted in the Kodály method, known for its strong emphasis on music literacy, audiation, and sequential skill development through singing. Students learn to read, write, and truly understand music using solfège, hand signs, and a wide variety of folk-based repertoire.

To enhance creativity and engagement, we incorporate elements of Orff Schulwerk, bringing music to life through movement, percussion, and improvisation. This balanced approach nurtures both technical skill and expressive freedom.

We are proud to foster a multicultural learning environment, exploring vocal music from a wide range of cultures and traditions. Students gain not only a global perspective on music, but also an appreciation for diversity and connection through song.

Our choirs emphasize healthy vocal technique, age-appropriate repertoire, and expressive artistry. Through focused instruction in breath support, tone production, and musical phrasing, students build strong and confident singing voices.

Performance is at the heart of our program, offering students opportunities to share their growth, collaborate, and shine on stage. From school concerts to community events, our performance culture enriches each student’s musical journey and personal development.

 

Matthew Dinh

matthewtuan.dinh@houstonisd.org

 

 

 

Longfellow Band Program

Welcome to the Longfellow Elementary Band program, where young musicians will embark on an exciting journey of Discovery, Creativity & Musicianship! Being a member of our band is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. It also is a great activity that builds teamwork, leadership and responsibility.

The adventure begins in Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st grade, where students are joyfully introduced to the wonderful world of music, rhythms, and instrument families. Through engaging activities, they'll develop a foundational love for sound and movement.

As students enter 2nd grade, families have the exciting opportunity to choose band as their main Arts Path, continuing their journey through 5th grade. Students will start with pre-band instruments, recorder & xylophone, learning the fundamentals of reading music.

In 3rd grade, our students proudly join the Beginner Band! This is a pivotal moment as they choose a band instrument to continue their study. Instruments include, but not limited to, any of our wind instruments (oboe, flute, clarinet, saxophone, french horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium & tuba) or the array of percussion instruments available. They'll learn not only how to play these instruments but also how to care for them with respect and responsibility.

For our 4th and 5th grade young musicians, the journey continues in Advanced Band! Here, students deepen their musical understanding, refine their technical skills, and truly shine. They'll have numerous opportunities to share their talents, performing regularly at school and community events. 5th grade band students will have the skills necessary to audition and participate for any middle school to further their musicianship.

A select number of 4th & 5th grade band students will be invited to participate in our Competition Band. Members of this band will compete at various competitions across the city. Participating students can look forward to showcasing their skills at events such as All-City Honor Band, Concert Band Festivals, and UIL Solo & Ensemble to name a few.

The Longfellow Band program is about building confidence, fostering teamwork, and creating unforgettable memories. We look forward to celebrating you along your band journey with fun engaging opportunities and Band Awards all year long. Join the Longfellow Band and you’ll discover the power and joy of making music. Be Part of the Band!

Mr. Wilmore

Director of Bands

mwilmore@houstonisd.org

 

 

 

 

Longfellow Dance is about building confidence, encouraging creativity, and setting students up for success. Dancers focus on ballet to develop proper body alignment and technique. They connect to rhythm, movement and storytelling through Jazz Dance. In Modern Dance, Creative Movement, and Choreography students explore and find their own artistic voice. Children study World dance throughout the year to better understand others and build stronger communities. We prepare students with the skills to lead themselves toward success in life by focusing on participation, preparedness, technique, and self-reflection. We do this all while using the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People to encourage personal growth and excellence.

Shelbi Durand

Shelbi.durand@houstonisd.org

 

 

 

Tours are offered November- February every Thursday at 9:00am and every other Tuesday at 9am. Please call the front office to schedule your visit- we'd love to show you what makes Longfellow Elementary so special!!

 

Link to complete steps for parents:  https://www.houstonisd.org/enroll-now/enrollment

 

School Choice Navigator: HISD SCHOOL FINDER https://schoolnavigator.houstonisd.org

 

School Choice Link for Specialty Schools   https://www.houstonisd.org/enroll-now/enrollment-post-display/~board/enrollment/post/discover-the-power-of-choice-at-houston-isd

 

HISD Types-of-schools    https://www.houstonisd.org/schools-academics/academics/types-of-schools

     

 

 

Longfellow Orchestra has distinguished itself in the Houston musical community with its high-quality musicianship and full Orchestra parts-playing.  Beginning in 2nd-5th grade, Longfellow’s Orchestra is a full string orchestra, playing parts in harmony on violin, viola, cello, and double bass.  Mrs. Snow has directed the Orchestra program since 2005, and her groups consistently bring back 1st place, Superior ratings at area musical festivals every year--festivals geared towards older, more experienced middle and high school players.  Her students learn to read music and hold independent parts, and love to use their music to give back within our Houston community. 

Mrs. Snow spearheads the Black Heritage performance at the Houston Rodeo and community outreach concerts at Levy Park and Jones Hall, runs the district-wide HISD strings festival, coordinates the HISD Elementary All City Orchestra program, and personally makes sure her kids “Carol” in the Harris County Hospitals every year.

Under Mrs. Snow’s guidance, the Orchestra has flourished at Longfellow into a group of outstanding young musicians who are passionate about making music and making a difference in their community.

msnow1@houstonisd.org

 

Welcome to the Longfellow Art Magnet!

The Longfellow Art Magnet is a place where young artists create, learn, and grow! We believe that a child's art journey starts early, and we provide a vibrant, nurturing environment for exploration.

While the formal Art Magnet program begins in second grade where students are introduced to a structured curriculum and specialized projects, the foundation and appreciation for art is laid starting in Kindergarten. This early exposure sparks curiosity and gives them the eye to start seeing themselves as artists. 

As our students progress through the program, they will begin to see their unique style come through their artwork as they learn and practice new techniques. 

Our goal is for all Longfellow students to develop their unique creative voice, build a strong foundation in artistic principles, enjoy the artmaking process, and feel empowered to express themselves through art.

Ms. Young
aysha.young@houstonisd.org