The Marysville Exempted Village Schools Board of Education meeting held on November 21, 2024, featured passionate presentations from educators advocating for the preservation and enhancement of the district's performing arts programs. The meeting highlighted significant growth in choir and theater participation, alongside concerns regarding potential cuts to staff and resources.

Emily Campbell, the director of choirs at Buncehold Middle School, opened the discussion by celebrating the remarkable recovery and growth of the choir program post-COVID-19. She reported an increase in choir enrollment from 77 students in the 2020-2021 school year to 140 students in the current year, marking an 81% increase over four years. Campbell emphasized the importance of a robust music education, noting that their students have achieved high ratings at state contests and have participated in prestigious honors choirs.

Luke Ahern, a graduate of Marysville High School and a teacher in the performing arts pathway, echoed Campbell's sentiments. He reported a significant increase in student participation in theater, with a 275% rise in spring musical auditions over the past four years. Ahern expressed concern that proposed cuts to extracurricular programs would undermine the collaborative success built between the choir and theater departments, which he described as essential for student learning and community engagement.

Brianna Bizarro, head of the choral and theater department at Marysville High School, reinforced the value of music education, citing research that links music study to improved academic performance. She urged the board to consider the long-term implications of reducing music staff from nine to five, advocating for a curriculum that meets state and national standards.

Peggy Jackson, president of the Marysville Theatrical Boosters, also addressed the board, highlighting the community's commitment to supporting the arts. She noted the organization's achievements in enhancing theatrical productions and providing students with unique opportunities, including participation in prestigious competitions.

The meeting underscored a collective call to action from educators and community members to maintain and expand the performing arts programs in Marysville, emphasizing their critical role in student development and community pride. The board's decisions in the coming months will be pivotal in shaping the future of these programs and the opportunities available to students.