A possible reconfiguration of the music program at Highlands School District has some parents and students pressing the school board to reject the proposal.
Christina Faltot of Harrison urged district officials to reconsider tentative curriculum changes that could eliminate electives that include music theory, music technology and jam band, as well as individual music lessons.
She also questioned a plan to reduce middle school music to three days a week and split the high school music teacher, Matthew Beresik, between the buildings.
“This sends a message about how the program is valued,” Faltot said.
“These programs are what bring many students into the building every day and motivate them to be proud Rams students,” she said.
The board is scheduled to meet Monday, when they could discuss the proposed changes.
No one from the district administration responded to requests for comment.
Jeff Thimons, co-chair of the school board instruction committee, said the recommendations would be made by the high school principal and Superintendent Monique Mawhinney.
He said the board’s role is to consider their suggestions and review the information provided. The potential changes have not been put before the board yet, he said.
Kristie Babinsack, also a co-chair of the instruction committee, said the administration is not proposing to cut positions or eliminate programs.
What is happening, she said, is a scheduling adjustment process.
“After student course selections were completed for next year, the administration identified that some classes — primarily electives — had very low enrollment,” Babinsack said. “In response, they are consolidating those classes and reassigning teachers as needed to ensure that classes are appropriately filled and teachers maintain full schedules.
“This approach is being taken to remain fiscally responsible and, importantly, to avoid potential furloughs where possible.”
Babinsack said, although the process is impacting multiple departments, it might appear more noticeable in certain areas such as music where a higher number of low-enrollment classes were identified.
Faltot, whose children are involved in several music-related programs, said Highlands has a long history of exceptional music education she hopes will continue.
Senior Presley Taylor agreed, saying she’s been involved with a multitude of music offerings, including jazz band, pit orchestra and concert band throughout her time at the high school.
“It seems as though there will no longer be a program with all the things being taken away,” Taylor said. “It’s not in the best interest of the students. It limits us from expressing ourselves.”
Faltot credited the district’s efforts to create a large and inclusive athletic program, which includes co-ops with neighboring schools. She applauded the district for offering robotics, geology and jewelry making — a varied list of classes that purposely appeals to different tastes.
“We are all here for the same reason, to provide a safe and supportive environment where our students can grow and learn,” Faltot said. “We want to see them reach graduation ready for their next step but, before that, they need opportunities to discover who they are.
“I’m concerned about the changes planned for the music program because we should be finding more ways to engage students, not fewer.”
Because Taylor is graduating, the board’s decision won’t impact her. But she asked on behalf of her friends, who through music, have found their community, Taylor said.
“Please allow these programs to continue to grow so more students can find themselves,” she said.
If you go
Who: Highlands School Board
What: Possible discussion on curriculum changes
When: 7 p.m. Monday
Where: Highlands High School, 1500 Pacific Ave., Harrison