Given the economic pressures facing the Fulton County school board, various cuts to the budget are being proposed, many of which could affect the quality of education offered our children. Of particular interest is the possibility of cutting elementary school band, orchestra and chorus. Currently, all 4th and 5th graders are given the opportunity to choose between band, orchestra, or chorus, and attend those classes two days per week. If cuts are implemented, 4th and 5th graders will be offered the same general music education offered the younger (K-3) grades once per week. We would lose many wonderful educators, and our children would miss out on two years of specific music education.
Fulton County schools are currently chosen because of the programs they offer. It's safe to say, with commutes covering all of the Atlanta area, Fulton schools will become less desirable if these programs are cut. This not only effects our children, but our property values and local business revenue.
Fulton County schools are currently chosen because of the programs they offer. It's safe to say, with commutes covering all of the Atlanta area, Fulton schools will become less desirable if these programs are cut. This not only effects our children, but our property values and local business revenue.
These changes are being implemented without input from teachers or other music personnel. Fortunately, however, it does appear that there is a small window of opportunity to affect some influence/change. If you are also concerned about this issue, please contact the board member for your area, as well as the other board members and the superintendent. Time is of the essence, as cuts will possibly be voted upon at a January board meeting. Please also note that each of the board members holds monthly Community Meetings which anyone can attend.
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