The reduction in class time for Middle School music students compromises students' ability to achieve in other core subjects such as math, science and English, as music has been scientifically shown to facilitate learning in these areas.  Additionally, these cuts take away from the teachers’ and students’ ability to prepare for state assessments, when students perform before judges to be considered for “Virginia Honor” status for their school music programs.

These cuts have had a significant negative impact on our students’ ability to stay competitive with their peers in neighboring counties like Loudoun, Prince William, and Fairfax. That is not acceptable; and it certainly is not beneficial to our children’s education, not to mention their motivation to achieve.