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Parents urge board to restore pay for after‑school music programs to save jazz, pep and rock ensembles

Wayne-Westland Community School District Board of Education · February 9, 2026

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Summary

Two parents told the board that the district’s jazz band, pep band and rock orchestra will end unless the board authorizes extra pay for Mr. Meddy; speakers said the programs build academic and social skills and help recruit students to the district.

During public comment, parents called on the board to reconsider the decision to stop paying for extracurricular music programs that operate outside class time. Tasha Glover, who identified herself as a longtime music booster and parent, said the programs — including jazz band, pep band and a proposed rock orchestra — will "no longer exist because the district will not pay Mr. Meddy the extra money he deserves for doing these programs outside of class time." She urged the board to "pay Mr. Meddy for his time" and said the programs help recruit students and provide a richer music experience.

Jennifer Owens, another parent volunteer and marching‑band medic, said music participation strengthens cognitive skills, social skills and emotional well‑being and described witnessing dramatic student growth in the district’s music ensembles. "Music has changed these students' lives," she said, asking the board to "reconsider the choice of taking these programs away from the kids." Owens and Glover asked the board to restore compensation that enables after‑class ensembles and stressed the programs’ role in student engagement and district recruitment.

Board members responded with appreciation for Mr. Meddy’s work. Several members thanked parents for speaking and praised the marching and symphony band’s recent community appearances. Interim Superintendent Dr. Kost noted a letter from Wayne RESA recognizing a holiday performance and said the band received a standing ovation at a RESA meeting.

No formal board vote on the music programs occurred at this meeting; parents requested reconsideration and board members offered support and follow‑up.