Dear Editor: Why Less Music Opportunities at WHS?

Dear Editor,

I am writing about concerns I have with the school decreasing and even cutting access to music programs. I know that in the last two years, my son had to split his music class with study skills in order to even have access to band class. This decreased his time for band by half. Now, I am informed they won't even provide enough slots so he can have band next year. He has to take math instead. I am outraged. When I went to look up the times for music programs on the school website, I found they had eliminated Janet Heilig's page where she informed parents of concert dates and times. Why?

Janet Heilig is an amazing music instructor and has been instrumental in helping both my boys find the joy of music. I have always admired her ability to balance a tough load since she instructs elementary, middle school, and high school bands and choirs and provided music appreciation at the last minute this year. We need more music opportunities. NOT LESS!

Why isn't music important to this school's administration? It should be just as important as any other class.

Tayla Andrews

Whitehall, Montana