Since the third grade, I have been passionately involved in playing the trumpet. Throughout the years, I've had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Youth Band, Middle School Band, and various ensembles at Melrose High School (MHS), including the Marching, Concert, Jazz, and Symphony Bands. Music has not only been a deep-seated passion but a major part of my identity and educational journey. Additionally, my participation in bands outside of school has highlighted the disparity in funding we face at MHS.

Our Fine Arts Department, specifically the Melrose Marching Band, faces underfunding. Without the help of the Bandaiders and community members, the Marching Band would not exist. The all-volunteer group funds things like competition fees, music rights and arrangements, equipment transportation to competitions, purchasing instruments and repairs, drycleaning and mending uniforms, support payments to staff not paid by the school, uniforms, props, and flags for the color and winter guard.  With dwindling volunteers within the Bandaiders, we need as much support as we can get. The Marching Band should not have to rely solely on volunteers, as it represents our school with pride and championship awards. Resources like trucks for transporting equipment, advanced sound systems, and sufficient financial support for fees and staff salaries are essential elements that we at MHS often have to borrow, rely on donations, or simply go without.

The impact of this underfunding is profound. It affects not only the quality of education and experiences we can offer students but also their opportunities for growth and development in the arts. A thriving arts program is crucial not just for students like me who are passionate about music, but for the entire school community, fostering creativity and teamwork among students.

According to a study by the National Endowment for the Arts, schools with robust arts programs tend to have higher academic success rates. Moreover, students engaged in the arts are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement and three times more likely to win school attendance awards. These statistics underline the importance of a well-funded arts program in nurturing well-rounded individuals.

I call upon the Melrose School District to increase funding for the Melrose High School Fine Arts Department. By doing so, we can provide essential resources such as transportation for our instruments, state-of-the-art sound systems, and fair compensation for our hardworking staff. Your support can transform the future of many young musicians and artists.

Please sign this petition to ensure that the Melrose Bands and the entire Fine Arts Department receive the funding they deserve to inspire and nurture the next generation of artists and leaders.