Atlanta elementary losing instrumental music programs
When the 2015-2016 school year commences, it will do so without any orchestra or band programs in the Atlanta Public School’s elementary schools, as per a recent announcement.
The Atlanta Public School (APS) district issued a statement saying that there would no longer be orchestra or band instruction at the elementary level but it would instead be “increasing instructional quality and efficiency”. Additionally, assurances were given that “every APS elementary student would receive General Music instruction – chorus, music appreciation, introduction to instruments”.
According to one recently dismissed APS music instructor, Arthur McClenton, the music teachers were not informed of the changes in advance. While waiting to receive contracts, instrumental music teachers were surprised to instead receive letters saying their positions were being eliminated.
The news is sure to send former teachers to print companies with updated résumés in hand, but as Gift of Music Foundation President Chris Monroe points out, the situation is not unique to Atlanta schools but reflects a change of focus in more regions.
Despite the positive correlation between music training and academic success, and the popularity of these programs, jobs are being eliminated in numerous other locations, which will make it more difficult for teachers to find new positions. Monroe lays the blame on the lack of appreciation of school arts programs among the public.
The Atlanta Public School (APS) district issued a statement saying that there would no longer be orchestra or band instruction at the elementary level but it would instead be “increasing instructional quality and efficiency”. Additionally, assurances were given that “every APS elementary student would receive General Music instruction – chorus, music appreciation, introduction to instruments”.
According to one recently dismissed APS music instructor, Arthur McClenton, the music teachers were not informed of the changes in advance. While waiting to receive contracts, instrumental music teachers were surprised to instead receive letters saying their positions were being eliminated.
The news is sure to send former teachers to print companies with updated résumés in hand, but as Gift of Music Foundation President Chris Monroe points out, the situation is not unique to Atlanta schools but reflects a change of focus in more regions.
Despite the positive correlation between music training and academic success, and the popularity of these programs, jobs are being eliminated in numerous other locations, which will make it more difficult for teachers to find new positions. Monroe lays the blame on the lack of appreciation of school arts programs among the public.