This happened to our school several years ago. The teachers took it upon themselves to incorporate music into their lesson on their own in the neatest ways! The Kindergarten teachers sing with the kids while walking in the hall and to the classroom (softly of course) and the 1-5 grades had a center with fun items that they use to play "music" or they dance! The gym teachers took that hint and introduced dance.

Four years later, the music department is funded with the Entertainment Book fundrasier and I can't begin to tell you what I feel everytime I pass the Music room. Keep the faith and ask how to and how much is needed....

When my daughter started elementary school budget cuts had forced the loss of an art teacher. The PTO from our school and another school went together and paid for a part-time art teacher to share. Perhaps you can look into doing a similar thing with a music teacher.

We did not pay the teacher directly we just donated a sum to the school to pay for the teacher. That prevented us from getting involved with payroll taxes and such.

Also, I know there are businesses and organizations that support the arts in school. If there is a Fine Arts League or Junior Women's League in your community check with them. You can also do a little searching on the internet. Search for fine arts grants and check out the websites of businesses in your community for their community giving policies and programs.

As the parent of an orchestra student(soon to be two orchestra students,)music is an important part of our life. Studies have also shown that music education and participation in musical arts improves skills in other educational areas especially math. Look up that info too so you can make a good case for funding! Good luck!!

[ 08-24-2005, 10:46 AM: Message edited by: LUVMYKIDS ]

Well this is the 2nd year music has been cut out of the budget for our K-2 school of 550. My question is have any of you fought or did anything against the school budget to get something back in and what steps did you take? I do have some parents interested but I think if I get more on board it would be better. What steps should I take to start the initiative for this?

Also if it doesnt go through anyone know where to start for getting grants for music ed?


Cindy