MPS music report highlights staffing gains, persistent vacancies and proposed funding change to reduce part‑time roles

Sherry Garcia, the district’s music curriculum specialist, told the Board Committee on Instruction that Milwaukee Public Schools has expanded music staffing and student opportunities since 2020 but still faces dozens of part‑time vacancies and alignment challenges that a revised funding formula could address.

The update is notable because it reports both measurable program growth — including more traveling music hours, growing drumline participation and a central music library — and a proposal to change how art and music positions are funded so small fractional assignments are easier to fill.

Garcia reported current staffing and service data: about 133 music staff in 2024–25, including 105 classroom teachers serving 95 schools, 24 traveling music teachers serving 54 schools, two music teacher leaders who coach new teachers, and two instrument specialists who processed more than 500 requests and…