The Harp Foundation has been supporting the work of StarShine Academy International Schools since the first school opened in August of 2002, as a partnered outreach of concern after the disaster of September 11, 2001. The schools are located in the highest need neighborhoods, consisting of kindergarten through high school students, coming from the most high-risk families. The children in most cases have experienced severe circumstances and have been victims of crime, abuse, pregnancy and lack of education. The families, many times, consist of a mother caring for many children. Some of the children are at times, homeless. Although StarShines students have experienced many, many hardships, its schools are well-known for the student’s academic achievement and nearly 100% graduation.

The Harp Foundation has had a profound effect on StarShine students and their achievement. At nearly every community event, adult harpists have provided music. And this year, because of a generous grant, StarShine students were able to take Harp lessons on the twelve Harp-sicle Harps. We believe along with others, that the harp is one of the most healing instruments for the heart. These children at StarShine provide a shining example of this truth, as you can witness in the attached picture. Prior to StarShine, most of the children were very angry and sad. They are now serious about listening and learning. Students take practicing the harp very seriously, waiting in line for a turn  to practice. We are committed, as we grow the next 1000 schools, to continue to include Harp lessons as a priority for the children’s education. It is that important to our overall theme of maintaining education standards that support each individual students needs for body, mind, spirit, health, wealth and happiness.

Every child should be so lucky to learn to play and appreciate the heavenly music of harps, and how it helps them to gain brain function for further learning.

Testimonial by Trish McCarty, President & CEO, StarShine Academy