Saline Music Teacher Honored at Final Concert After 34 Years

The third grade concert at Harvest Elementary ended with a surprise tribute for longtime music teacher Tricia Dana, who is retiring after 34 years in Saline Area Schools.

After a program filled with songs, movement and laughter, students turned their attention to Dana and shared memories from her classroom.

Harvest Elementary serves students from young fives through third grade, giving Dana a role in the musical education of generations of the district’s youngest learners.

“We will always remember how she made every class fun,” a student said during the tribute. “Just seeing her each day made music class something we looked forward to and will never forget.”

Students recalled games, instruments, dance moves, parachute activities and songs they still remembered years later.

“Her warm smile and kindness made everyone feel welcome, especially new students,” another student said.

Dana, who has taught at Harvest for more than three decades, led the April 14 concert, “Music Is Always There,” featuring performances by multiple third grade classes.

The program included songs such as “Three Little Birds” and folk music from different cultures, reflecting the variety students described in her classroom.

“For 34 years, Mrs. Dana has been the heart and harmony of Harvest and the elementary music program,” Harvest Principal Emily Sickler said. “Through her passion, dedication and unwavering belief that every child deserves to experience the joy of music, she created a space where students felt confident and inspired.”

When Dana addressed the audience, she said teaching at Harvest had meant a great deal to her.

“It’s meant so much to me,” Dana said. “It’s been an honor and a privilege.”

That impact has lasted beyond elementary school.

“Mrs. Dana was an impactful teacher, and I find myself channeling her strategies as I now teach my own classes in Saline,” said Rachel Aulisa, a seventh grade science teacher at Saline Middle School.

Aulisa said she still remembers how Dana made students want to come to class.

“I will never forget how excited I was to go to class every day because she was so happy, engaging and always had something new and wonderful to share about the world of music,” Aulisa said.

Students also remembered the range of experiences Dana brought to class, from learning songs in different languages to attending a concert at Hill Auditorium.

As the tribute turned toward Dana’s retirement, students shared their hopes for what comes next, and families and staff watched as the program took on a more emotional tone.

“We know you loved being our music teacher,” a third grader said. “Our hope and dream for you next is that music takes you on many new adventures.”

After the concert, Dana greeted students and families, at one point offering a simple message to a former student: “Just keep singing.”

Featured image: Tricia Dana, longtime music teacher at Harvest Elementary, addresses students and families during a third grade concert and tribute celebrating her 34 years in Saline Area Schools. Photo by Heather Finch