We, the undersigned parents, caregivers, students, and community members, urge the Langley School District (SD#35) to reinstate the in-school violin program at Blacklock Fine Arts Elementary (BFA) for the 2025–2026 school year and beyond.

For over a decade, this 45-minute weekly program, taught in partnership with Langley Community Music School, has been a vital part of BFA’s identity as a Fine Arts school, offering equitable, in-school access to music education from Kindergarten to Grade 5.

Why It Matters

• The cancellation was announced with no meaningful notice, consultation, or time to explore solutions to preserve the day-school program.
• An after-school option was offered, but scheduling conflicts and logistical barriers made it unworkable for many families.
• Removing the program diminishes the presence of “Art” within a Fine Arts school—one of its core pillars.
• The program has supported students' social-emotional growth, confidence, and artistic development, especially for those with anxiety or social challenges.
• Families already invested in violin rentals now face non-refundable costs.
• Grade 5 students, who have been in the program since Kindergarten, are being denied the chance to finish what they began.
• Further reductions to the arts program began last year when the Suzuki Violin Kindergarten program was discontinued, eliminating vital early childhood music education during a critical period for brain and sensory development (ages 3–6). 

Watch the students perform an original song on Empowerment (2022–23):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giOFeLJuyUA

Sign to Show Your Support
Protect access to quality arts education at BFA. Sign this petition to ensure all children continue to have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive through music.