Our Story
April 10, 2023. Edmonds School District is proposing significant staff reductions next year. Today we learned that the Mountlake Terrace High School Music Program will cut two band classes (out of five) and the only remaining choir class at the school. In addition, the after school drama class will be cut.
Our students are still recovering from the effects of the pandemic– academically, socially, and emotionally. There are holes in their learning; many are anxious, depressed, and/or stressed. We are seeing behaviors we haven’t seen before due to students struggling to manage their emotions and/or seamlessly interact with others.
Students in the music program have expressed how it has literally saved them from quitting school because they had a place where they felt connected to others and a safe place to be. The arts bring them together with similar goals. Studies show that students who play a musical instrument perform better in all other core subjects, as well as having better creativity, problem solving, and social skills. Music helps students express emotion and release stress.
Budget cuts should be made as far away from our students, classrooms, and buildings as possible! District administrative positions and departments should be trimmed to restore as many instructional positions to buildings as possible.
You can learn more about the current budget by reviewing
What You Can Do!
Share
- Like our Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages so you can ‘like’ and ‘share’ all of our updates. We need to spread the word.
- Download and display the “Save The Music” logo on your social media profile to demonstrate your support.
- Download a “Save The Music” full page, 1/2 page, or 1/4 page flier to display at home, work, in your car, or anywhere that makes a statement.
- Share your story with us. Feel free to reach out to us directly at [email protected] or cc [email protected] when contacting the principal, School Board, and state representatives. We want to share your stories to encourage others to speak up. In addition, we will print everyone’s email and give them to the principal and Board of Directors.
Connect
- Join our mailing list to receive updates and opportunities to support the music program.
- Like our Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages for updates.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your support! The Mountlake Terrace High School Music Community is strong and mighty! We have a voice and we will be heard!
