We, the undersigned students, parents, alumni, and community members, respectfully urge the Hollis Brookline School Board and SAU 41 administration to reconsider the decision to eliminate the band director position at Hollis Brookline High School for the upcoming school year.

While we understand that this decision is based on enrollment-driven staffing policies and recent directives, we believe it will have significant and lasting consequences for our students and the integrity of our performing arts program.

A comprehensive music program is not defined solely by enrollment numbers across multiple electives. Concert band at HBHS continues to have strong student participation, and there is a clear and growing pipeline of musicians from our middle and elementary schools. Eliminating the band director position, despite this sustained interest, risks destabilizing a program that has long been a source of pride, connection, and opportunity within our school community.

Music education plays a vital role in student development. It fosters discipline, creativity, collaboration, and confidence. For many students, it also provides a critical sense of belonging and support—an anchor in their school experience that contributes positively to their mental health and overall engagement.

We are especially concerned that:

• Without a dedicated band director, the quality, continuity, and sustainability of the program will decline
• Current students, including those pursuing music beyond high school, will lose essential instruction and mentorship
• The burden placed on existing staff to absorb additional responsibilities may lead to burnout and further program loss
• Once diminished, rebuilding a music program becomes significantly more difficult, even if student interest remains

We respectfully ask the administration and school board to:

1. Pause or reconsider the elimination of the band director position for the upcoming school year
2. Explore alternative staffing solutions, including part-time or shared roles, that would allow the program to continue while addressing enrollment concerns
3. Work collaboratively with the community to develop a sustainable plan to strengthen music enrollment and participation over time
4. Re-evaluate policies that may unintentionally disadvantage music programs due to scheduling constraints and elective requirements

This is not simply a request to preserve a position—it is a call to protect a vital part of a well-rounded education at Hollis Brookline High School.

We ask for transparent discussions and proactive planning to safeguard this indispensable part of our curriculum. Please join us in calling for an immediate halt to the proposed removal of the band director position. Sign this petition to show your support for preserving the music program at Hollis Brookline High School. Together, we can ensure that the arts continue to play a central role in our students' education, strengthening their future and enriching our community culture. Please sign to make your voice heard and protect the future of music education at our school.