Mr. Chuck Pineda » K-5 Music, HS Biology & HS US History

K-5 Music, HS Biology & HS US History

K-5 General Music
Four basic strands--foundations: music literacy; creative expression; historical and cultural relevance; and critical evaluation and response--provide broad, unifying structures for organizing the knowledge and skills students are expected to acquire. The foundation of music literacy is fostered through reading, writing, reproducing, and creating music, thus developing a student's intellect. Through creative expression, students apply their music literacy and the critical-thinking skills of music to sing, play, read, write, and/or move. By experiencing musical periods and styles, students will understand the relevance of music to history, culture, and the world, including the relationship of music to other academic disciplines and the vocational possibilities offered. Through critical listening, students analyze, evaluate, and respond to music, developing criteria for making critical judgments and informed choices.
 
HS Biology I
In Biology, students conduct laboratory and field investigations to study a variety of topics including cellular structures and functions, genetics, biological evolution, and ecosystems. Emphasizing the nature of science and scientific inquiry, students learn to make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem-solving skills. The curriculum covers scientific processes, cellular biology, genetics, evolutionary theory, taxonomy, metabolism, homeostasis, and ecological interactions, preparing students for informed decision-making in scientific contexts and highlighting the interdependence of living systems and their environments. This course is recommended for students in grades 9 through 11 and awards one credit upon successful completion.
 
HS United States History from 1877 to Present
This course will explore U.S. history from the post-Reconstruction era to the present, emphasizing political, economic, and social developments. Key topics include industrialization, major wars, domestic and foreign policies, and reform movements, with a focus on civil rights and democratic processes. The course integrates primary and secondary sources, critical thinking, and geographic impacts, encouraging an understanding of the U.S. free enterprise system and constitutional issues. Special attention is given to key historical milestones, cultural movements, and the impact of technological advancements on American society.

Jose Carlos “Chuck” Pineda is the new Pre-K - 5th grade Music Specialist at Lighthouse Public Schools. He will also be facilitating high school classes in US History from 1877 and Biology I. Mr. Pineda holds a Masters in Music Education from Texas Tech University and Bachelors in Vocal Music Education from the University of North Texas. With 19 years of teaching experience, Mr. Pineda has taught kindergarten to college level learners. His students have performed in All-Region Concerts, Texas Choral Directors Association State Conference Choirs, and the Organization of American Kodály Educators National Conference Choirs.

Mr. Pineda holds certifications in Kodály & Orff pedagogical teaching approaches from Texas Tech University & Southern Methodist University respectively. With an interest in medieval vocal & instrumental music, Mr. Pineda completed a certification in Early Music Performance Practice from Texas Tech University. Currently, Mr. Pineda is pursuing a Texas Principal Certification and a National Board Certification. He has worked with the Dallas Children’s Chorus, West Texas Children’s Choir, and Michigan State University Youth Choir. An active singer, Mr. Pineda is a member of the San Antonio Choral Society and soloist.

A Texas native, Mr. Pineda is originally from El Paso, TX and is thrilled to call the San Antonio Area home. He enjoys reading, movies, online games, pets, traveling and cooking. His favorite musicians include Elton John, Dolly Parton, Kelly Clarkson, Khalid, René Fleming, Juan Luis Guerra, and the students he teaches!

Texas Tech University
Master’s Degree in Music Education & Graduate Certificate in Early Music Performance Practice
 
University of North Texas
Bachelor of Music Education with Choral/Vocal Concentration
 
Certifications
TExES Teacher Certification (All Level Music PK-12)
TExES - Gifted & Talented (All Level PK-12)
TExES - English as a Second Language (All Level PK-12)
Kodály Certification endorsed by OAKE
Orff-Schulwerk Certification endorsed by AOSA
 
Presentations
A Coaching Model to Cultivate Student-Lead Growth by Paul & Paul
Texas Choral Directors Association (TCDA) - July 2023