This petition is deeply personal to me and my family. My daughter, Aly Polich, battled severe depression and anxiety before she found solace in the choir of Swift Creek Middle School. Her mental health was a significant concern for us all, and we were desperate to find something that could bring her relief. The choir program became that lifeline for Aly.

Since joining the choir, we have witnessed a remarkable improvement in Aly's mental health and overall well-being. Even her therapist has noted the positive impact that being part of this community has had on her life.

However, this vital program is now under threat of being discontinued - an action that would not only affect my daughter but also countless other students who rely on it as an outlet for their emotions and a platform to express themselves creatively.

Research shows that participation in school music programs can lead to improved academic performance, better social skills, increased self-esteem, and lower levels of stress (National Association for Music Education). By eliminating the choral program at Swift Creek Middle School, we risk depriving our children of these benefits.

We urge you to consider not just Aly's story but also those of many other students whose lives have been positively impacted by this program. We implore you to preserve the choral program at Swift Creek Middle School so it can continue providing its invaluable service to our community here in Clayton, NC.

Please sign this petition today; let's stand together for our children's right to music education.