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Musician from LA helps teach local children about science, confidence with music video

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  Published in Science and Technology on Thursday, October 23rd 2025 at 17:21 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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Local Musician Brings Science and Confidence to Young Minds in Los Angeles

A rising star in Los Angeles’ music scene, Paulie Z, has stepped beyond the stage to become an unexpected science mentor for elementary students at Cincinnati Public Oyler School. Through a partnership with the Lower Price Hill Foundation and the city’s educational mentorship program, Z’s innovative “Musical Science” initiative is transforming how kids engage with complex scientific concepts while boosting their confidence through music.

The Genesis of a Classroom Hit

The idea sprouted during a community outreach event hosted by the Lower Price Hill Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering academic and artistic growth in underserved neighborhoods. The foundation’s founder, Maria Gonzales, explained that she wanted to bridge the gap between traditional STEM education and creative arts. “We’ve seen that music can be a powerful mnemonic device,” Gonzales said. “When kids sing and move to the rhythm, they remember facts and formulas better.”

Paulie Z, born in Los Angeles but raised in Cincinnati, heard about the foundation’s project via a local news segment on KCTV. After a brief meeting with Gonzales and the school’s science coordinator, Z was invited to create a series of short music videos that would make learning science a fun, interactive experience. The result: “Atoms in Harmony,” a catchy rap that explains atomic structure, and “Eco Beats,” a funk track that teaches ecosystems and conservation.

The Power of Music Video in Education

The school’s science teachers incorporated the videos into their curriculum, allowing students to watch the clips during class and then perform the songs in a group chorus. According to Oyler School’s Principal, Dr. Elena Ramirez, the approach has led to a noticeable improvement in test scores. “Before we introduced the music videos, the average grade on the unit about chemical reactions was 78%. Six weeks after we started the Musical Science program, that number jumped to 91%,” she said. “It’s not just the scores; it’s the enthusiasm. Kids who were previously disengaged are now eager to ask questions.”

The videos also come with a “science cheat sheet” that breaks down key terms and includes quick quizzes. Z’s production team worked with science writers from the Cincinnati Post to ensure accuracy while keeping the content accessible. Each video lasts around three minutes and is accompanied by a downloadable worksheet that can be printed or accessed on school tablets.

Confidence Through Performance

Beyond academic gains, the program’s focus on performance has nurtured self‑esteem among students. In one session, a group of seventh‑grade girls performed the “Atoms in Harmony” track at the school’s annual talent show. The performance was met with thunderous applause, and one student, 12‑year‑old Maya Patel, said, “I was nervous at first, but singing made me feel like I could do anything.” The teachers noted that students who participate in the music videos report higher levels of confidence in speaking up during class discussions.

The program also offers a mentorship component. Paulie Z conducts monthly “Jam & Learn” sessions, where students can meet with him to discuss both music and science topics. These sessions often involve collaborative songwriting, where students create their own verses about topics like genetics or renewable energy. Z has stated that “the goal is to give them tools they can use not only in science but in life—like teamwork, creative problem‑solving, and perseverance.”

Linking Communities and Resources

The initiative is supported by several local entities. The Lower Price Hill Foundation supplies classroom materials, while the Cincinnati Public Schools’ Office of Academic Innovation provides logistical support. Additionally, the “Science & Sound” segment of the local NPR station, Cincinnati Voices, has highlighted the project on its website, giving broader visibility. For those interested in viewing the videos or accessing the worksheets, the foundation’s website hosts an interactive portal: https://lowerpricehill.org/educational-mentorship-program.

Paulie Z’s involvement has also attracted media attention beyond Cincinnati. An article on Los Angeles Times highlighted the program under its “Community Spotlight” section, featuring a photo of Z teaching a group of students in a bright classroom, their faces illuminated by the glow of a projector. The article linked to a behind‑the‑scenes video where Z explains his creative process.

Looking Ahead

The program has received funding from a recent grant by the National Science Foundation’s Creative STEM initiative, earmarked for expanding the curriculum to include physics and mathematics. The plan is to develop a new track, “Gravity Groove,” that simplifies Newton’s laws into a dance routine. In the meantime, the current music videos are already being used in other schools across the state, thanks to a partnership with the Cincinnati Public School District that encourages teacher adoption.

The success of Paulie Z’s Musical Science program illustrates how interdisciplinary collaboration can transform education. By weaving science concepts into the fabric of music and performance, the initiative has not only raised academic achievement but also empowered students with confidence and creative skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom. The next chapter promises even more innovative ways to make learning resonate—quite literally—with the next generation.