GOODRICH SCHOOLS -Concerned parents are wondering – will the music go on?
They took the question to the Monday, Feb. 24 school board meeting, fearing the impact of state budget cuts on the instrumental music program.
Tom Mattison, longtime band director for Goodrich schools will retire at the end of the year. He teaches students at the middle school level and Aaron Orkisz currently teaches high school students.
The school board is faced with three possibilities following Mattison’s retirement. They can either hire a new director, make Orkisz the head director and hire an assistant, or not hire a new director and spread Orkisz between the middle school and high school. The last option is the fear of students who believe they will not receive the same quality of instruction.
In light of state budget cuts, officials are torn between down-sizing activities or dipping into funds meant to be allocated in other areas. They are also aware that the community will grow, therefore bringing more students to band. Some wonder where the extra students will receive instruction if the position is not filled.
Superintendent Ray Green shared his thoughts on the tight budget, saying cutting costs through staff attrition is an option for the district.
“We will be struggling with priorities through March, April and May. Our budget that we have to work with is small and one thing we must consider is not hiring replacements after retirement in some areas. It’s a real challenge.”
One voice amongst the crowd was parent Rick Misek.
“To have Tom retire and not replace him is unacceptable. If we have to hire a new college grad that is willing to take a low end on the pay scale, then we should go that route.”
High school senior and band member Emily Doerr spoke of the waste of the new auditorium and new instruments because of the lack of instruction.
“Music education, without a doubt, improves brain power and confidence,” said Doerr.
Many points were brought up about cutting extracurricular activities instead of accredited classes.
The board said they will make the best decision for the students.
President Michael J. Thorp said, “You are preaching to the choir. We have to take all aspects of this dilemma into consideration.”
Former Goodrich student James Allen was in band for many years and served as drum major.
“I can honestly say that I don’t think I would have the confidence to pursue my education at U of M and have skills that I have today without band,” he said.