MN School district revamps music program

ELK RIVER, MN — The same Elk River Area School Board that
reacted with shock and horror to reports this summer of the dismal
state of the district’s band and music program is now poised to do
something about it.

Vocal and instrumental educators from across the school district
laid out a plan on Dec. 6 to chart a new course for the band and
choir programs in the Elk River Area School District.

The cost of the first phase of a three-phase approach would
amount to no less than $335,000.

School Board members expressed support that night for approving
Year 1 of the plan by year’s end, so it could be implemented for
the start of the 2011–12.

School Board Member Jolene Jorgensen, however, threw up caution
flags at the Dec. 13 regular meeting, saying it will be important
to examine potential pitfalls. “This could impact other programs,”
she said.

Superintendent Mark Bezek told the Star News on Thursday the
School Board will have a recommendation to respond to at its 7 p.m.
meeting, Monday, Dec. 20.

The hallmarks of what educators proposed Dec. 6 in the first
phase include eliminating the option sixth graders currently have
to take study hall. In its place would be a music requirement for
sixth graders. The music options would be choir, band or some type
of music appreciation class.

Teachers have already agreed to “do whatever it takes” to
construct the curriculum for this new course so it would be ready
in September 2011 when school starts.