East Baton Rouge School Board approves $445K contract for Kids Orchestra program

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board has taken a significant step towards enhancing arts education for students by approving a professional services contract with Kids Orchestra for the 2025-2026 school year. The board unanimously agreed to allocate $445,000 from the general fund and Title IV funding to support the after-school program, which aims to provide students with valuable musical education and experiences.

During the July 10, 2025, Committee of the Whole meeting, board members expressed their commitment to enriching the educational landscape for local youth. The Kids Orchestra program is designed to foster creativity and teamwork among students, contributing to their overall development.

In addition to the Kids Orchestra contract, the board also approved a $65,000 professional services contract with the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge. This funding will support arts-integrated instruction and programming, further emphasizing the district's dedication to providing comprehensive educational opportunities that include the arts.

The discussions during the meeting highlighted the board's focus on enhancing student engagement through creative programs. With no public comments opposing these initiatives, the board's decisions reflect a strong community support for arts education.

As these programs move forward, the East Baton Rouge Parish School District aims to create a more vibrant and inclusive educational environment, ensuring that all students have access to enriching experiences that can shape their futures.