Save our Fairfax County Public Schools band and strings programs
Target:
All who value instrumental music in our children's education!
Dr. Dale released his FY2011 Proposed Budget this evening (Jan. 7, 2010). IF the Board of Supervisors will increase the county transfer by $57.8 million dollars, we will stay in the budget. If this does not happen the elimination of band and string programs in the elementary schools will be realized. Eliminating a program that serves 25,013 or 85% of the available student population is not acceptable. This will, in a short time decimate our secondary school bands and orchestras.We need as many signatures on this petition as possible. We specifically need people who do not have children in the school system to sign on and leave comments as to why the school system must remain strong and why this program is so important. The Board of Supervisors did not increase the amount of last year's transfer so we must stay active.Thank you for your support.
This petition is intended to present as many of the facts as we know them at this point and to let you know that the Fairfax Arts Coalition for Education (FACE) has met, formulated an advocacy strategy, and will be sending out information to your personal emails through the Presidents of all of our organizations.
Here are some facts about our elementary band and strings program:
- This year, 25,013 students are enrolled in band and strings.
- This number represents approximately 85% of all 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students in FCPS.
- 116.8 positions are defined in the FY2011 budget as our band and strings teachers assigned to teach these students. Our elementary band and strings programs continue to grow annually.
- Positions are different than teachers since many of our teachers are part-time. The 116.8 full time positions are covered by 146 personnel.
- Last year, the Instruments for All (IFA) provided 7,111 instruments to students on free and/or reduced lunch. This year, the number is at 7,800 and continues to grow. These are students who could not afford to participate in our programs without the school system%u2019s support. Approximately 36 of our positions are hired to serve this added population.
Dr. Dale released his FY2011 Proposed Budget this evening (Jan. 7, 2010). IF the Board of Supervisors will increase the county transfer by $57.8 million dollars, we will stay in the budget. If this does not happen the elimination of band and string programs in the elementary schools will be realized. Eliminating a program that serves 25,013 or 85% of the available student population is not acceptable. This will, in a short time decimate our secondary school bands and orchestras.We need as many signatures on this petition as possible. We specifically need people who do not have children in the school system to sign on and leave comments as to why the school system must remain strong and why this program is so important. The Board of Supervisors did not increase the amount of last year's transfer so we must stay active.Thank you for your support.
This petition is intended to present as many of the facts as we know them at this point and to let you know that the Fairfax Arts Coalition for Education (FACE) has met, formulated an advocacy strategy, and will be sending out information to your personal emails through the Presidents of all of our organizations.
Here are some facts about our elementary band and strings program:
- This year, 25,013 students are enrolled in band and strings.
- This number represents approximately 85% of all 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students in FCPS.
- 116.8 positions are defined in the FY2011 budget as our band and strings teachers assigned to teach these students. Our elementary band and strings programs continue to grow annually.
- Positions are different than teachers since many of our teachers are part-time. The 116.8 full time positions are covered by 146 personnel.
- Last year, the Instruments for All (IFA) provided 7,111 instruments to students on free and/or reduced lunch. This year, the number is at 7,800 and continues to grow. These are students who could not afford to participate in our programs without the school system%u2019s support. Approximately 36 of our positions are hired to serve this added population.
We signed the "Save our Fairfax County Public Schools band and strings programs" petition!
# 11,552:
11:07 am PST, Feb 9,
Name not displayed, Virginia
This is ridiculous. Band and strings should be a requirement in primary schools!
This is ridiculous. Band and strings should be a requirement in primary schools!
# 11,551:
10:53 am PST, Feb 9,
Leslie Margolis, Virginia
Part of what makes America so successful is its creativity. Music is such a natural way for kids to learn about their creative selves, being part of a group and experiencing the ego nurturing influence of performing. Our education need to remain a balance of fundamental studies, physical and creative exercising of our minds and bodies.
Part of what makes America so successful is its creativity. Music is such a natural way for kids to learn about their creative selves, being part of a group and experiencing the ego nurturing influence of performing. Our education need to remain a balance of fundamental studies, physical and creative exercising of our minds and bodies.
# 11,550:
7:34 am PST, Feb 9,
Name not displayed, Virginia
# 11,549:
11:26 am PST, Feb 8,
Chris Berkley, Virginia
I am a Fairfax County resident who had 2 children that benefitted from participation in elementary school band and strings programs. I feel strongly that all children should have the same opportunity, as it provides educational, creative and social benefits.
I am a Fairfax County resident who had 2 children that benefitted from participation in elementary school band and strings programs. I feel strongly that all children should have the same opportunity, as it provides educational, creative and social benefits.
# 11,548:
5:59 am PST, Feb 8,
Troy Grindle, New York
# 11,547:
8:31 pm PST, Feb 7,
Name not displayed, Maryland
Music and Arts programs have consistently shown to improve student performance. It is imperative to continue to improve these classes to encourage more students to participate. It is very unfortunate that Fairfax County Public Schools is even considering eliminating programs.
Music and Arts programs have consistently shown to improve student performance. It is imperative to continue to improve these classes to encourage more students to participate. It is very unfortunate that Fairfax County Public Schools is even considering eliminating programs.
# 11,546:
3:44 pm PST, Feb 7,
Nate Boyden, Connecticut
I have learned that Fairfax County may eliminate the strings and band programs in elementary schools. In so doing, the school board must understand that they will be doing huge harm to the intermediate and high school music programs. More importantly, a huge poplulation of elementary school students will be deprived the ability to try something that so many before them have found hugely enjoyable, and a large part of their individual development. I hope the school board recognizes the harm that cutting these programs will do to the students the board is entrusted to serve.
I have learned that Fairfax County may eliminate the strings and band programs in elementary schools. In so doing, the school board must understand that they will be doing huge harm to the intermediate and high school music programs. More importantly, a huge poplulation of elementary school students will be deprived the ability to try something that so many before them have found hugely enjoyable, and a large part of their individual development. I hope the school board recognizes the harm that cutting these programs will do to the students the board is entrusted to serve.
# 11,545:
1:33 pm PST, Feb 7,
Name not displayed, Texas
# 11,544:
12:59 pm PST, Feb 7,
Julianne Martinelli, Maryland
# 11,543:
9:56 am PST, Feb 7,
Gudrun Watson, Virginia
# 11,542:
9:41 am PST, Feb 7,
Bethany Morel, Virginia
# 11,541:
7:10 am PST, Feb 7,
Patricia Callery, West Virginia
# 11,540:
5:27 am PST, Feb 7,
Andrea Cameron, Maryland
Living very near to Fairfax County, the consideration of eliminating any level of instrumental music instruction cannot be tolerated. Re-instating the programs would be a financial nightmare. The precedent would be dangerous for all surrounding jurisdictions. Fairfax County is strong in academics, and it is likely because of its strong instrumental programs.
Living very near to Fairfax County, the consideration of eliminating any level of instrumental music instruction cannot be tolerated. Re-instating the programs would be a financial nightmare. The precedent would be dangerous for all surrounding jurisdictions. Fairfax County is strong in academics, and it is likely because of its strong instrumental programs.
# 11,539:
4:33 pm PST, Feb 6,
Alan Turner, Virginia
The music programs for Fairfax county have been a terrific experience for my children and a big part of their lives - teaching them about dedication, excellence, and expressiveness; it would be such a shame for others to not have the same opportunity.
The music programs for Fairfax county have been a terrific experience for my children and a big part of their lives - teaching them about dedication, excellence, and expressiveness; it would be such a shame for others to not have the same opportunity.
# 11,538:
2:58 pm PST, Feb 6,
Henry Ruempler, Virginia
Fairfax has a jewel in its music education programs... don't throw it away.
Fairfax has a jewel in its music education programs... don't throw it away.
# 11,537:
1:59 pm PST, Feb 6,
Brian Reagan, Virginia
# 11,536:
11:25 am PST, Feb 6,
Name not displayed, Virginia
# 11,535:
11:19 am PST, Feb 6,
Madison Hankins, Virginia
PLEASE keep the music in the schools! it's so important for kids to have the opportunity to learn to play instruments and expand their minds.
PLEASE keep the music in the schools! it's so important for kids to have the opportunity to learn to play instruments and expand their minds.
# 11,534:
11:15 am PST, Feb 6,
Stephanie Sgroi, Virginia
Keeping it in school will help kids appreciate and learn to love music.
Keeping it in school will help kids appreciate and learn to love music.
# 11,533:
10:15 am PST, Feb 6,
Donna G. Ray, Virginia
# 11,532:
10:08 am PST, Feb 6,
John T. Ray, Virginia
# 11,531:
9:59 am PST, Feb 6,
Kelsey Ray, Virginia
While I am a singer, not an instrumentalist, I know the impact that music can have on people's lives. Students who are involved in some sort of music program are statistically proven to get better grades in math and science. In fact, of any major on college campuses, music majors are the most likely, by percentage, to get into medical school! Not to mention that at this young age, it is a great way to get our kids involved in an activity that can be with them for the rest of their lives. It's also a great way for kids to make new friends. When I moved to Virginia in 5th grade, I didn't know anyone, but I was able to make many friends in the music program and was able to fit in that way. It's also an effective way to keep kids out of trouble. Kids who are involved in structured activities, such as band, are far less likely to do drugs and get involved in gangs. With the recent drug problems in the high schools in our area, (specifically heroine) I find this aspect of particular importance. What many people do not understand is that learning music is like learning another language. Just like with foreign languages, kids are far more likely to succeed in learning to read music if they start at a young age. This elementary school age is crutial. If our bands and strings are gone from elementary schools, they will soon be gone from middle schools and high schools as well. Music is such an important aspect of our lives and too many Americans don't give it enough emphasis. Look at the rest of the world! We want to compete with the other industrialized countries of the world, but we don't see them cutting their music programs! In fact, music in many countries, Europe especially, is a much larger aspect of their lives than ours. In most of Europe, going to the opera or symphony is like going to the movie theater for us. If we want to compete in math and science, we should start with music.
While I am a singer, not an instrumentalist, I know the impact that music can have on people's lives. Students who are involved in some sort of music program are statistically proven to get better grades in math and science. In fact, of any major on college campuses, music majors are the most likely, by percentage, to get into medical school! Not to mention that at this young age, it is a great way to get our kids involved in an activity that can be with them for the rest of their lives. It's also a great way for kids to make new friends. When I moved to Virginia in 5th grade, I didn't know anyone, but I was able to make many friends in the music program and was able to fit in that way. It's also an effective way to keep kids out of trouble. Kids who are involved in structured activities, such as band, are far less likely to do drugs and get involved in gangs. With the recent drug problems in the high schools in our area, (specifically heroine) I find this aspect of particular importance. What many people do not understand is that learning music is like learning another language. Just like with foreign languages, kids are far more likely to succeed in learning to read music if they start at a young age. This elementary school age is crutial. If our bands and strings are gone from elementary schools, they will soon be gone from middle schools and high schools as well. Music is such an important aspect of our lives and too many Americans don't give it enough emphasis. Look at the rest of the world! We want to compete with the other industrialized countries of the world, but we don't see them cutting their music programs! In fact, music in many countries, Europe especially, is a much larger aspect of their lives than ours. In most of Europe, going to the opera or symphony is like going to the movie theater for us. If we want to compete in math and science, we should start with music.
# 11,530:
9:39 am PST, Feb 6,
Leslie Weisman, Maryland
# 11,529:
9:30 am PST, Feb 6,
Loren and Peter Brandman, Virginia
Education isn't only about reading, writing, and arithmetic. The arts help our children become well-rounded members of society. They also help children express themselves, provide a way for some to succeed who don't excel academically, and provide after-school activities that are safe, fun, and enriching. Our county, our state, and our nation will suffer long-term consequences of losing the benefits these vital programs provide -- it starts with us.
Education isn't only about reading, writing, and arithmetic. The arts help our children become well-rounded members of society. They also help children express themselves, provide a way for some to succeed who don't excel academically, and provide after-school activities that are safe, fun, and enriching. Our county, our state, and our nation will suffer long-term consequences of losing the benefits these vital programs provide -- it starts with us.
# 11,528:
9:29 am PST, Feb 6,
Tom Garnett, Virginia
# 11,527:
9:24 am PST, Feb 6,
Josh Brandman, Virginia
I play trombone in the Woodson HS band, and even though the budget cuts won't affect me, I would hate for the music program to not be available for other students in the future. Music has had a major positive impact in my life. If the Board of Supervisors cuts the band and strings programs, then many students will never have this wonderful opportunity.
I play trombone in the Woodson HS band, and even though the budget cuts won't affect me, I would hate for the music program to not be available for other students in the future. Music has had a major positive impact in my life. If the Board of Supervisors cuts the band and strings programs, then many students will never have this wonderful opportunity.
# 11,526:
8:52 am PST, Feb 6,
Mary Stradley, Virginia
Dear Sirs, Please keep music in the schools especially the strings, violins and band. We need musicians of tomorrow and these programs are vital for our children and our enjoyment to listen to them. Music is not just playing songs. It is a learning process as well. Please Sirs keep it in the school.
Dear Sirs, Please keep music in the schools especially the strings, violins and band. We need musicians of tomorrow and these programs are vital for our children and our enjoyment to listen to them. Music is not just playing songs. It is a learning process as well. Please Sirs keep it in the school.
# 11,525:
8:32 am PST, Feb 6,
Kimberly Usowski, Virginia
It would be tragic to lose something so important and special in the lives of these young children. I hope a responsible and educated decision is made.
It would be tragic to lose something so important and special in the lives of these young children. I hope a responsible and educated decision is made.
# 11,524:
8:22 am PST, Feb 6,
David Montgomery, Virginia
We send our children to school, we encourage them to speak their minds, and eventually we give them the right to vote. But what is the point if they remain ignorant of what's really inside them?
We send our children to school, we encourage them to speak their minds, and eventually we give them the right to vote. But what is the point if they remain ignorant of what's really inside them?
# 11,523:
5:42 am PST, Feb 6,
Name not displayed, Missouri
Our son participated in the band program in Fairfax County from 5th grade through the time we had to move to Missouri due to my husband's job transfer. We are COMPLETELY convinced that his dedication to band driven by the excellent staff in the schools gave him the drive to also be a great student in the classroom. If the band program is eliminated at the elementary level then Fairfax County better figure out how to help a TON of failing students in other subject areas!!!!!
Our son participated in the band program in Fairfax County from 5th grade through the time we had to move to Missouri due to my husband's job transfer. We are COMPLETELY convinced that his dedication to band driven by the excellent staff in the schools gave him the drive to also be a great student in the classroom. If the band program is eliminated at the elementary level then Fairfax County better figure out how to help a TON of failing students in other subject areas!!!!!
# 11,522:
5:03 am PST, Feb 6,
Cheryl Sabo, Virginia
Music learning supports all learning and is a unique human intelligence in its own right. Chopping music impacts more than the short-term budget.
Music learning supports all learning and is a unique human intelligence in its own right. Chopping music impacts more than the short-term budget.
# 11,521:
7:56 pm PST, Feb 5,
Mary Madison, Wisconsin
To Whom this may concern: Music is a part of every facet of life. From birth to death and everything in between music is in the fabric of our lives. From simple ceremonies, weddings, funerals, graduations, inaugural balls...music is a part. What kicks off any sporting event in our country? Music...a simple song. How do we honor a soldier when s/he is laid to rest? Music...a simple yet moving song. What would a movie be like without music? T.V. shows, advertising? Music, music, music. Retail stores, office buildings, doctors offices...all use music. Is there anyone that doesn't turn on the radio in their car? Ipod? Where would that invention be without music? Have you ever met anyone that didn't like some kind of music? There are all manner of musicians in the world, whether they be band/orchestra, rock band, country, polka, the list is endless...Where did most of those musicians get their start? School. If children are not allowed to explore music in school and learn the joy of playing an instrument at a young age. How do we expect them to appreciate the value as they get older. Where do we expect the music to fill our movies and ipods is going to come from? Music is in the fabric of our lives...no one can deny that...admit it and admit how empty life would be without music...and save the music!
To Whom this may concern: Music is a part of every facet of life. From birth to death and everything in between music is in the fabric of our lives. From simple ceremonies, weddings, funerals, graduations, inaugural balls...music is a part. What kicks off any sporting event in our country? Music...a simple song. How do we honor a soldier when s/he is laid to rest? Music...a simple yet moving song. What would a movie be like without music? T.V. shows, advertising? Music, music, music. Retail stores, office buildings, doctors offices...all use music. Is there anyone that doesn't turn on the radio in their car? Ipod? Where would that invention be without music? Have you ever met anyone that didn't like some kind of music? There are all manner of musicians in the world, whether they be band/orchestra, rock band, country, polka, the list is endless...Where did most of those musicians get their start? School. If children are not allowed to explore music in school and learn the joy of playing an instrument at a young age. How do we expect them to appreciate the value as they get older. Where do we expect the music to fill our movies and ipods is going to come from? Music is in the fabric of our lives...no one can deny that...admit it and admit how empty life would be without music...and save the music!
# 11,520:
6:51 pm PST, Feb 5,
Name not displayed, Virginia
# 11,519:
2:48 pm PST, Feb 5,
Joel Bradshaw, Hawaii
My nephew plays in the band at his public school in Fairfax County. I'd hate to see him lose the chance to keep playing at school. Music education in school helps social as well as artistic development.
My nephew plays in the band at his public school in Fairfax County. I'd hate to see him lose the chance to keep playing at school. Music education in school helps social as well as artistic development.
# 11,518:
1:31 pm PST, Feb 5,
Linda Davidson, Virginia
# 11,517:
11:19 am PST, Feb 5,
Cynthia Adler, Virginia
We are not a musical family. In fact, I don't think there is a musician on either side of my. or my husband's side. However, both of my children played music instruments all the way through high school, and now my daughter is studying music in college and my son is applying to music schools for the Fall of 2011. Both of my children discovered their love of music in elementary school. If they had not been encouraged to play instruments at an early age, I doubt very seriously if they would have picked it up later in life. Learning how to appreciate music early in life not only builds budding artists, but perhaps even more important, builds audiences that are crucial to keeping our arts alive and strong. Surely, anyone who has ever been moved by music would never want to deny our children of this joy. Children today are pushed to hard to succeed, they need something in their life that soothes their soul and feeds their minds.
We are not a musical family. In fact, I don't think there is a musician on either side of my. or my husband's side. However, both of my children played music instruments all the way through high school, and now my daughter is studying music in college and my son is applying to music schools for the Fall of 2011. Both of my children discovered their love of music in elementary school. If they had not been encouraged to play instruments at an early age, I doubt very seriously if they would have picked it up later in life. Learning how to appreciate music early in life not only builds budding artists, but perhaps even more important, builds audiences that are crucial to keeping our arts alive and strong. Surely, anyone who has ever been moved by music would never want to deny our children of this joy. Children today are pushed to hard to succeed, they need something in their life that soothes their soul and feeds their minds.
# 11,516:
10:06 am PST, Feb 5,
Pilar Bradshaw, Virginia
My son definitely benefited from joining band since the 5th grade until now at Lanier. It not only has enhanced his love for music, but it's also given him confidence and really the ability to learn coordination and how to be able to harmonize - something that I think will serve him throughout his life. The impact of music/band in our schools is not just learning to play an instrument, but learning skills that will carry out in life situations as he grows. We need to continue to have this in our schools. My daughter will be in elementary soon, and I want to see her given the same opportunity as my son has had.
My son definitely benefited from joining band since the 5th grade until now at Lanier. It not only has enhanced his love for music, but it's also given him confidence and really the ability to learn coordination and how to be able to harmonize - something that I think will serve him throughout his life. The impact of music/band in our schools is not just learning to play an instrument, but learning skills that will carry out in life situations as he grows. We need to continue to have this in our schools. My daughter will be in elementary soon, and I want to see her given the same opportunity as my son has had.
# 11,515:
9:30 pm PST, Feb 4,
John McCanless, California
The FCPS elementary and secondary band programs had a profound positive impact in my life.
The FCPS elementary and secondary band programs had a profound positive impact in my life.
# 11,514:
3:18 pm PST, Feb 4,
Sung Oh, Virginia
# 11,513:
1:27 pm PST, Feb 4,
Susan Smullen, Virginia
I know the school system faces a daunting budget and funding challenge. I also know that eliminating band and strings opportunities for elementary school students will be a significant disappointment and have a lasting effect / impact on the students, the fcps band program, and the reputation and desirability of an fcps education as a whole. My younger daughter has benefitted from the Chinese program at Providence ES and loves it! And my older daughter was a band and strings ES student and continues to play at Lanier. All 3 are wonderful and enriching opportunities. It would be a very tough choice, but I would choose band/strings for the long term educational benefits and practicality. Sincerely, Susan Smullen
I know the school system faces a daunting budget and funding challenge. I also know that eliminating band and strings opportunities for elementary school students will be a significant disappointment and have a lasting effect / impact on the students, the fcps band program, and the reputation and desirability of an fcps education as a whole. My younger daughter has benefitted from the Chinese program at Providence ES and loves it! And my older daughter was a band and strings ES student and continues to play at Lanier. All 3 are wonderful and enriching opportunities. It would be a very tough choice, but I would choose band/strings for the long term educational benefits and practicality. Sincerely, Susan Smullen
# 11,512:
9:50 am PST, Feb 4,
Lee Vinson, Massachusetts
# 11,511:
6:54 am PST, Feb 4,
Natalie York, Virginia
# 11,510:
5:25 am PST, Feb 4,
Dana Moreno, Virginia
# 11,509:
4:09 pm PST, Feb 3,
Scott Perlman, Virginia
My children are in high school now but they benefitted greatly from the elementary school orchestra program in which they participated. It is critical that these programs be preserved even if difficult budgetary times.
My children are in high school now but they benefitted greatly from the elementary school orchestra program in which they participated. It is critical that these programs be preserved even if difficult budgetary times.
# 11,508:
3:32 pm PST, Feb 3,
Matt Ercolani, New Jersey
KEEP BANDS IN OUR SCHOOLS!
KEEP BANDS IN OUR SCHOOLS!
# 11,507:
8:42 am PST, Feb 3,
Vandana Goel, Virginia
# 11,506:
10:54 pm PST, Feb 2,
Jessica Watson, Virginia
I went to school in Fairfax County from 1st through 12th grade. One thing that I am most proud of our county for is the musical program. Even when I was in first grade, I loved going to music class and being exposed to a variety of music and instruments. I joined the band in elementary school and continued playing until I graduated. Music teaches children discipline, teamwork, and confidence. It gives kids something to do after school instead of causing trouble. Almost all of my fellow band members attended college and are leading successful lives. I am most grateful for the appreciation of music that I developed. Music moves me and affects me in a way that many of my non musical friends could never feel. If the band and strings programs were cut in any way, the quality of the music that will come from Fairfax County will diminish. More importantly, thousands of children will not have the same life changing experience that I had through music. I would not be the person I am today without the band and strings programs. I beg you to please think of all the lives that have been touched by the programs and will be touched by preserving them. Thank you.
I went to school in Fairfax County from 1st through 12th grade. One thing that I am most proud of our county for is the musical program. Even when I was in first grade, I loved going to music class and being exposed to a variety of music and instruments. I joined the band in elementary school and continued playing until I graduated. Music teaches children discipline, teamwork, and confidence. It gives kids something to do after school instead of causing trouble. Almost all of my fellow band members attended college and are leading successful lives. I am most grateful for the appreciation of music that I developed. Music moves me and affects me in a way that many of my non musical friends could never feel. If the band and strings programs were cut in any way, the quality of the music that will come from Fairfax County will diminish. More importantly, thousands of children will not have the same life changing experience that I had through music. I would not be the person I am today without the band and strings programs. I beg you to please think of all the lives that have been touched by the programs and will be touched by preserving them. Thank you.
# 11,505:
6:35 pm PST, Feb 2,
Becky York, Virginia
# 11,504:
5:01 pm PST, Feb 2,
Jeanette Essig, Virginia
As a parent and a teacher in Fairfax County, I have seen first-hand the inequities of our system. Some students, at some schools, just get more! Instrumental music instruction, however, is available to every single elementary student at every elementary school in Fairfax County. We must preserve this vital program.
As a parent and a teacher in Fairfax County, I have seen first-hand the inequities of our system. Some students, at some schools, just get more! Instrumental music instruction, however, is available to every single elementary student at every elementary school in Fairfax County. We must preserve this vital program.
# 11,503:
2:40 pm PST, Feb 2,
Bob Daski, Virginia
# 11,502:
12:53 pm PST, Feb 2,
Mary Supley Foxworth, Virginia
I attended Fairfax County Public Schools for grades K-7, and 10-12. Music education was a very important part of my school experience. I participated in the elementary strings program, as well as choir from 5th grade on. I enjoyed school, but music was always the highlight of my week. I chose to continue my study of music in high school and college and it's something I enjoy and put to use to this day. Though I don't have any children, I support this petition with the hope that current students will have this same opportunity.
I attended Fairfax County Public Schools for grades K-7, and 10-12. Music education was a very important part of my school experience. I participated in the elementary strings program, as well as choir from 5th grade on. I enjoyed school, but music was always the highlight of my week. I chose to continue my study of music in high school and college and it's something I enjoy and put to use to this day. Though I don't have any children, I support this petition with the hope that current students will have this same opportunity.
# 11,501:
9:32 am PST, Feb 2,
Carol Grossman, Virginia
Dear Dr. Dale and School Board Members, The elimination of the elementary instrumental music program would be devastating to all our children.Although we are a wealthy county in so many ways, there is a population of children whose only exposure to music is through this program. Their families can not afford private music lessons. Please don't take away their only chance to experience and develop their love of music. Most sincerely, Carol Grossman
Dear Dr. Dale and School Board Members, The elimination of the elementary instrumental music program would be devastating to all our children.Although we are a wealthy county in so many ways, there is a population of children whose only exposure to music is through this program. Their families can not afford private music lessons. Please don't take away their only chance to experience and develop their love of music. Most sincerely, Carol Grossman
