Parent, grandparent urge trustees to keep music teacher and support arts program

Two members of the community used the public-comment period to urge trustees to preserve and expand school music offerings and to retain the district's music teacher.

"I'm here just to support...make sure that we don't lose our valuable teacher," parent Amanda Coxbill said, describing music as a key avenue for creative thinking and problem-solving that complements technical skills.

Leanne Carrel, who identified herself as a grandparent, said the music teacher has built momentum across grade levels and encouraged the board to consider restoring a second music position or tapping qualified community volunteers to sustain programs.

Board members responded with appreciation for the comments and acknowledged budget pressures; no formal action on staffing was announced during the meeting.

Why it matters: Community speakers framed arts education as central to student development and urged trustees to weigh program continuity when finalizing staffing and budget decisions.