We fought last year. Hard. Despite our efforts, Mountlake Terrace High School lost Choir, one of two drama classes, our Percussion Ensemble and our Jazz 2 ensemble. Additionally, our Music Director has had to split his time teaching at both elementary school and the high school.
Needless to say, the cuts were impactful and defeating. We had an impassioned and impressive response from our parents, students and community that was beyond inspiring. But by the time we got involved, decisions to cut performing arts programs had already been made.
That experience and inspiration has kept me going. Over the past year, many Edmonds School District music parents and community members have come together to learn more about the complicated processes and nuanced issues with Washington State public education funding. And we know that we’re now in a similar position as last year, where the Edmonds School District is facing an estimated $10.6 million budget deficit for the ‘24-’25 school year. Again, we’re asking ourselves as parents and community members, what can we do?
We understand more this year and we’re having conversations before decisions are made. This is significant progress. But like last year, we don’t know if there is an ideal solution. Both federal and Washington State funding formulas are outdated and inadequate. While voters have approved taxes for additional funding, the state funding cap is below what voters have approved. Yet, needs for schools, special education and student services continue to grow. Music and performing arts programs are more essential to student wellbeing and advancement than ever before. Maybe we don’t have a silver bullet or even a defined critical path, but we do have needs and stories that we can and should share.
Here’s what I’m doing today. Please join me and share what you’re doing to help our School Board members understand the criticality of music in public education.
TODAY – ACT NOW!
- Complete the Balancing Act exercise OR the Google form for feedback. Cuts will happen. Make sure you share your voice by Monday, March 18th as the board will be holding a special budget discussion meeting on Tuesday, March 19th.
- Get Educated on the root issues: ESD ’24-’25 Budget Information. Yes, the Edmonds School board has 5th & 6th grade music programs on the chopping block. Why? What are the areas where we can demand better action from state and federal representatives?
ONGOING – KEEP IT UP!
- With the right background and your personal story, attend Edmonds School District School Board Meetings and speak: ESD Board Meetings. Tell the Edmonds School Board why music and performing arts are important and share your ideas that may not be part of the current plan.
- Write to your legislators and tell your story! We have links and templates available here on the MTHS Music Boosters Website.It is critical that our state hears personal stories of impact and value and not just once. Write them regularly, call them and plan trips to speak during open sessions. Coordinate with other parents, teachers and students!
- Talk and share your stories and actions with neighbors, family, friends and community. Share on social media what you’re doing so others can do the same. The more voices out there, the stronger the message. Follow MTHS Facebook, MTHSmusic.org and other informative social media accounts like Edmonds Education Association, Edmonds School District and The Foundation for Edmonds School District. Find and follow other parent groups such as Edmonds Woodway Music and other school boosters.
— Carolyn Harvey, MTHS Music Boosters President
