Address: 2515 Timberwood Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80528

Front Office: 970-488-7500

Attendance: 970-488-7503

Early Childhood Attendance: 970-490-3336

Office Hours: 8:00am - 4:00pm

Principal: Alissa Kendall

Address: 2515 Timberwood Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80528

Front Office: 970-488-7500

Attendance: 970-488-7503

Early Childhood Attendance: 970-490-3336

Principal: Alissa Kendall

Thomas Chen

Music Teacher
Phone Number:
Biographical Sketch

I was born in Fort Collins and have lived here all my life. I went to Tavelli, Bauder, and Timnath Elementary, Preston Junior High, and Poudre High School. I attended CSU, graduating Magna Cum Laude with my Bachelors Degree in 2011, and my Masters Degree in 2013, both in music education. I received my advanced degree in Educational Leadership at the University of Northern Colorado in 2022. 

I started working at Traut in 2011 fresh out of college and have been here ever since.

I am blessed to reside in Timnath with my wife Elizbeth, my daughter, Vivian, my sons, Landon and Logan, my two cats, Fiona and Willow, as well as my two dogs Panda, and Tahini. 

What I like about Traut is

All the brilliant children that I get to work with for multiple years. I enjoy the fruits of everyone's labor and love watching the amazing growth that happens as the children  learn and grow.

Hobbies & Interests

During my free time, I enjoy watching spending time with my family, reading, board games, and video games.

My favorite books and authors are

Books by Brandon Sanderson and Mo Willems. Bradon Sanderson writes complex fantasy novels, while Mo Willems has a silly sense of humor.

Favorite Quote

A man never stands as tall as when he kneels to help a child

About My Classroom

During music, I see one-third of the school four days a week, for 45 minutes each day. In addition to learning Core Knowledge Content, students learn a sequenced music method called Kodály, which focuses on learning musical concepts through the use of folk songs. Each grade also has their own unique performance once a year.

Throughout the Traut musical experience, students work on singing, dancing, playing instruments (primarily recorder), music history, performance etiquette, reading and writing music notation. It is a rigorous yet joyful experience as students work diligently to strive for a solid foundation in music to prepare for 6-8 grade Core Knowledge music ensembles. 

Choir will be offered to students twice a week in the fall while the chimes choir will be twice a week in the spring. Students in grades 3-5 may join either ensemble and up to 22 auditioned students are accepted into the chimes choir while there is no limit for choir.

Courses Taught

Music Kindergarten through 5th Grade

Choir

Chimes Choir

Learning Page
PSD does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, veteran status, age or disability in access or admission to, or treatment or employment in, its programs or activities. A lack of English speaking skills will not be a barrier to admission or participation.