Music teacher Randy “Ralph” Raab of East Hanover Township, NJ engages his students and addresses the diversity of skill levels in the classroom with a mix of teaching techniques. He introduces pre-kindergarten students to the mechanics of the violin before singing and dancing to a song about a cookie. For older students, he incorporates game-based learning to the study of classical composers and music theory. Raab believes that music programs increase student test scores, attendance and self-esteem, and advocates for their importance in schools.