Robbin brings music to school, community

At a time when school administrators are reconsidering the value of Fine Arts, Canyon Lake Middle School (CLMS) makes a strong statement as to the necessity of the Fine Arts. When the middle school opened in 2002, Canyon Lake resident Robbin Bouslog took on the challenge of developing a new vocal music program. That challenge has developed into a top-notch program that includes Honor Choir and Cougar Choir.

Pat Van Dyke
Columnist, The Friday Flyer

Through Robbin’s leading, both choirs earned superior ratings during this last school year at the High Notes Music Program, which was held in Cypress, California. A superior rating places both choirs in the top 10 percent of the nation for middle school choirs.

To earn this distinction, both Robbin and the students have put in countless hours of practice along with the sacrifices that have been made by the parents. Indeed, Robbin Bouslog is an “unsung hero” for many Canyon Lake families.

Robbin is one of those rare teachers who “gets the best out of each and every student.” Dealing with middle school students is sometimes viewed as the most difficult of all ages; but Robbin, who has a passion for students to build their confidence, makes a difference in the lives of each and every student.

Robbin’s love for her students and the community of Canyon Lake has a very long history. In 1969, Robbin’s parents, Roger and Wanda Acton, purchased a lot in Canyon Lake. As a teenager, she has wonderful memories of her times in Happy Camp, which spurred her father to take a job in the Inland Empire and moved his family to Canyon Lake full-time.

When Robbin was a young mother, she made the decision to go back to school to earn her degree in teaching. In 1987, Robbin began her teaching career in Lake Elsinore Unified School District. This past week, on August 8, Robbin began her 30th year teaching for the local school district.

During the past 29 years, Robbin has taught on both the elementary and middle school levels. For the past 14 years, she produced CLMS’s annual musical.

When asked why she has such a passion for Canyon Lake’s students, she says, “The students have grown in leadership, learned to be part of a team and improved their singing, dancing and acting skills. Many have gone on to pursue careers in the entertainment industry. I am so proud of each and every one of them and it has been a blessing to know and work with them all.”

However, Robbin’s passion is not limited to children and school. When she is not working with children, she is contributing much to the community. When she was in college, she gave voice and piano lessons in her Canyon Lake home. In the 1980s, she began a small vocal group in Canyon Lake Community Church which traveled to other churches and senior homes.

Robbin also touches many residents as she directs Canyon Lake’s own vocal group, the Choraleers. This group provides quality entertainment at various events in the community.  Their performances at Veteran’s Day and holiday concerts are always met with high approval. Every Christmas, the Choraleers help to make Santa’s arrival in Canyon Lake magical! When the group sings at the Senior Center, there is standing room only.

When asked about leading vocal groups of various ages, Robbin noted that elementary children just smile and sing. In her middle school groups, she watches as each member grows in their vocal ability, especially the boys as their voices change from alto to baritone.  And in her adult choir, she enjoys using three- and four-part harmony.

Robbin and her family have always had a deep love for Canyon Lake. Robbin’s mother, Wanda, continues to live in Canyon Lake in the original home that she and her husband built in the 1970s. Robbin’s father, Roger, passed away a few short months ago.

Robbin’s sons, Sam and Israel, were also enriched growing up in Canyon Lake. Sam Morrow and his family now live in Washington state. Israel Morrow, his wife Patty and children Rudy (19), Randall (18) and daughter Kaylynn (2) live in Canyon Lake. Israel is a science teacher at Lakeside High School in Lake Elsinore. Robbin and her husband Rick are blessed to have four generations of family as residents of Canyon Lake.

Many Canyon Lakers consider themselves privileged to receive so much from the talents and gifts of Robbin Bouslog. She is the driving force behind so many of the musical opportunities of the community.

Robbin does want all to know that there is room in the Choraleers for everyone. The new choir season begins August 29, at 7 p.m., downstairs in the City Hall building. The group is open to any adult who loves to sing.

Robbin’s quest to “follow her dream” gives everyone she touches an example of a woman who always strives for the best. What does Robbin want her students and choral members to learn from her? “Music can help in so many different areas of your life. It builds confidence, leadership skills and team work. I hope they can learn how a passion can turn into a lifelong and fulfilling career.”

Taking into account the passion and talents of this dedicated Canyon Laker, Robbin Bouslog can truly be seen as an “unsung hero.”

Nominate Your Unsung Hero

An “unsung hero” is a person who makes his or her home or neighborhood a better place to live. They are known by their simple acts of kindness, commitment, courage and love. An unsung hero could be your next door neighbor or a person you met at a local park or community event. Readers are encouraged to make recommendations by emailing Pat Van Dyke at patvandykeff@gmail.com.

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