A note from Roy Holder in Virginia

This is for all of us; knowing the national reputation and quality of these programs, if they're on the "chopping block" any of us could be. It's time to help out and go beyond our position statement. Please take the time to respond as mentioned at the end of his note!

To one and all:

You may or may not know that Fairfax County, Virginia is in the midst of a huge budget crisis. Very simply put, at this point the entire elementary band and orchestra program is on a list of cuts designed to reduce the 2010-2011 budget. This is not a reduction of staff or a trimming of class time, but the Total Elimination of this crucial program. I am aware that many districts are facing difficult situations and will gladly rally behind any effort to help save programs. What makes the Fairfax situation so important is the fact that this is happening in one of the districts that has served as a leader and example for music programs in many parts of the country. If these cuts were to become reality, many school districts would follow in short order. In an effort to forestall this possibility your help is needed. There is an online petition that needs a minimum of 10,000 signatures to be effective. It takes only a minute and also allows you make comments on the importance of this issue to Fairfax County, the future of music programs or just the importance of music in general.

When you go to the site you will need to scroll down to find the petition and you may need to click on the update link at the bottom of the page. Please take a minute to add your name to the list of music supporters and add a comment.

Other contacts that will be effecting this process include:

Board of Supervisors:
John Cook – braddock@fairfaxciunty.gov
Penelope Gross – mason@fairfaxcounty.gov

School Board:
Kathy Smith - Kathy.L.Smith@fcps.edu
Ilryoun Moon - ilryoun.moon@fcps.edu


Thank you for your support.

Roy Holder, Director of Bands
Lake Braddock High School
NBA Board of Directors High School Representative