For those of you who recently read Melissa Kate’s article regarding funding support for music education in public schools, then you are aware that there has been a budget crises when it comes funding the music program. Fortunately there is some good news ahead, with up to a $400,000 from The City’s general budget being allocated to boost the Buffalo Public Schools’ music program. Those funds will restore the program for one year – including 5.26 full time employees and over 200 students… that’s a pretty good bang for the buck. Let’s hope that this is not a flash in the pan, as music classes should be an option, not a privilege. “Music is a universal language and I’m pleased to announce a commitment of up to $400,000 from the City of Buffalo that will keep the music playing in Buffalo Schools,” said Mayor Brown, noting that music programs play a major role in improving attendance and graduation rates, while promoting team work, self-confidence and responsibility. “The arts are an essential part of Buffalo’s cultural identity and school music programs are an important part of it, resulting in stronger students and stronger communities.”
SAY YES will be in charge of distributing and monitoring the funds. According to the collaborative, the plan is to “help develop and facilitate the Buffalo Public Schools’ music program, while at the same time ensuring performance metrics, monitoring the effectiveness of the music program, and overseeing the disbursement and management of funds.” The news of the restored funding is music to the ears to the 14 schools that had programs either eliminated or reduced. It would be nice to see a longterm commitment to the schools that are benefitting from this recent allocation of funds.
Photo: Mayor Byron Brown, Council President Richard Fontana and Buffalo School music students from the Dr. Lydia T. Wright School of Excellence