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Community urges Gresham-Barlow to restore elementary music as proposed cuts loom
Summary
Parents, teachers and students told the Gresham-Barlow School District board that proposed eliminations of elementary music and reductions to music staff would harm student engagement and achievement; several speakers offered fundraising and levy ideas to preserve programs.
Speakers at the June 4 budget hearing urged the Gresham-Barlow School District to reverse a proposed elimination of elementary music and to retain music teachers. "Primary students don't need this technology at school, they need more art and music," said Amie Reiterman, an educational assistant in the district, describing frustration with proposals to cut elementary music and keep teachers only half time.
Music specialists, parents and students described broad community support for music programs and proposed alternatives to outright elimination. Kristina Etzel, a Hall Elementary music specialist and district alumna, said she and parent groups could help organize a levy and that several elementary PTCs had expressed willingness to fundraise. Parent Joe Graham said enrollment in one program grew from 55 to 105 students in five years and argued the district has the funds to restore programs. Student organizer Bryant Cruz Salazar reported his petition to save music grew to 5,526 signatures.
Those who testified said music supports students who do not participate in sports and can improve attendance and academic skills. "Music transcends politics, and is universally supported by all," said parent Mike Bundy, criticizing a proposed single music TOSA and warning that short, intermittent instruction would not replace full-time teachers. Chair Blake Petersen acknowledged the comments and said the board would discuss the budget and testimony during the business meeting under the budget-adoption agenda item.
