McCullough Eunice accepted into Mr. Holland's Opus adopt-a-school; board and donors pledge support

McCullough Eunice Middle School will receive long-term music support after being selected for the Mr. Holland's Opus Adopt-a-School program, the Dearborn Board of Education heard April 13.

Hannah Taylor, McCullough Eunice's music teacher, told trustees the program connects schools in need of instruments with donors and private partners. She said the school’s campaign page — created as part of the program — describes the music program and will facilitate donations. Taylor said the school expects to receive instruments and supplies that could last about 10 years and estimated the campaign goal at $16,500. She said there is no set end date for the campaign.

The board and community responded with immediate support. A Dearborn Exchange Club representative pledged $1,000 that night, board members said they would contribute, and Taylor noted an initial $1,000 donation from the Van Halen Association via the Mr. Holland's Opus office had already jump-started the effort.

Why it matters: Trustees and staff said expanding music access at the middle-school level supports higher enrollment and stronger high-school programs. Multiple trustees framed the adoption as part of a district-wide commitment to arts and credited local teachers and administrators with building the case for investment.

The superintendent and trustees encouraged other community members to consider contributing but emphasized donations are voluntary. The board did not take a formal vote on the campaign; Taylor said she would welcome any questions and follow-up from district staff.