EDITOR: On Tuesday, April 9, the Jefferson School District Board will meet to decide the fate of the music program for primary grades (Kindergarten through 4th grade.) At issue is the salary of a single Music teacher who provides 30-45 minute weekly lessons to classrooms at both Tom Hawkins and Monticello Elementary Schools.
Due to current legislation, said salary must come from the District budget. However, materials and supplies can be provided by fundraising activities. The importance of music education at an early age is discussed on a web site at www.musicforhawkins.org. In addition to containing compiled research on the importance of music education and the facts regarding the budget issue, is an electronic petition that will be presented to the Board at the April 9 meeting.
I urge everyone who has or will have children enrolled in the primary grades in the Jefferson School District to take a few moments to review the web site, and decide for yourself whether you wish to join us in our efforts to save the music program.
Daniel Wells
Tracy