Middle school teacher uses his rap songs to help students Gene Marrano November 16, 2015 1 min read An English teacher at James Madison Middle School in Roanoke is going the extra distance to help his 7th grade students learn – using rap music. More from WFIR’s Gene Marrano: Click below to view Cole Wilder’s rap song, “Do the Onomatopoeia” About the Author Gene Marrano Editor View All Posts Share: Continue Reading Previous: Goodlatte under fire in NYC area for opposing permanent 911 responders’ compensation fundNext: Local website creator appointed to state advisory board Related Stories 1 min read Mill Mountain Theatre reveals 2026 season, tickets on sale November 1st Web Staff October 17, 2025 1 min read The Israel-Hamas ceasefire in Gaza – and the prospects for lasting peace. A local political scientist says all the players must be on board Gene Marrano October 17, 2025 1 min read Catawba’s iconic Homeplace restaurant to reopen in 2026 Ian Price October 17, 2025