The performances were sponsored by the Parent-Teacher Organizations of both schools. Both performances were centered around the theme of “The Leader In Me,” encouraging students to develop key character traits such as self-reliance, respect, honesty, and leadership. Colton’s engaging songs, which blend folk, rock, and blues styles, delivered messages to help students navigate personal challenges and make positive life choices.

At Youngsville, Colton integrated the school’s PBIS theme of S.O.A.R. (Safety, Ownership, Always Respect) into his performance, reinforcing the school’s values through music. At Sheffield he aligned his performance with the school’s PBIS theme of P.R.I.D.E. (Positivity, Respect, Independence, Determination, Excellence.

“I loved that it was engaging for all ages,” said Mrs. Mitchell, a teacher at Youngsville Elementary School. “It was so fun to see the younger students really get into it and even the older ones enjoying the songs and dancing along.” Blake Miller, a student at Youngsville Elementary School, echoed Mitchell’s enthusiasm:

“I liked that we got to dance, have fun, and be happy,” Blake said.

“It was funny when he kicked his shoe off and said, ‘Where is my shoe?’ That was hilarious!” said Joey Peck., a student at Youngsville.

The principals of both schools expressed their gratitude to the PTOs for making the assemblies possible and acknowledged the positive impact the performances had on their students.

“Mr. Glenn Colton presented his songs in such a fun and engaging way tied to being an overall good person,” said Amy Stimmell, Youngsville elementary principal. “Our students couldn’t get enough of the songs in the assembly, and everyone left feeling good about themselves and each other! We cannot thank our PTO enough for providing this wonderful assembly for our students!”

Colton, a two-time inductee into the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame, has delivered over 5,000 high-energy educational concerts across the country. He blends a variety of musical genres, including folk, rock, and blues, to create original songs with messages that encourage positive behavior and character development. Colton is also the kindergarten through eighth grade music teacher at Immaculate Conception School in East Aurora, N.Y., and serves as the music director at St. Mary of the Lake Church in Hamburg, N.Y.

“There is so much more that goes into a school day than just academics. We are raising the next generation of our future leaders. We have an opportunity every day to instill in them positive work ethics, compassion, kindness, self-determination, and the importance of character. Seeing our students raising their hands, dancing, and laughing with one another while singing songs focused on these life lessons was incredible.”

Harris also expressed appreciation for the collaboration between YES and SAES, which allowed the students from both schools to experience Colton’s performance together. “I cannot thank Mrs. Stimmell enough for reaching out and suggesting the joint assembly,” said Kylie Harris, Sheffield principal. “This event was not only educational but also helped build a sense of community between our schools.”