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Parents, students and teachers urge Santa Rosa board to preserve ArtQuest as trustees debate coordinator cuts and scheduling
Summary
More than two dozen public commenters and program coordinators urged the Santa Rosa City Schools board to preserve the ArtQuest magnet's two‑block structure and coordinator staffing after the district proposed section reductions; coordinators warned cuts are already prompting families to withdraw applications.
Hundreds of public commenters, students, alumni and program staff pressed the Santa Rosa City Schools Board of Education on March 25 to protect ArtQuest — the district’s award‑winning visual and performing arts magnet at Santa Rosa High — after staff presented possible section reductions tied to projected enrollment.
More than a dozen speakers during an extended public‑comment period described ArtQuest as a life‑changing program that requires a two‑period (double‑block) schedule to deliver hands‑on arts instruction. “ArtQuest saves lives,” said one alumnus and current parent, arguing the program fosters belonging and keeps students engaged in school. Students and parents repeatedly warned that uncertainty over the program’s future has already led some families to…
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