To: W. Brooks Matthews, Superintendent of Harnett County Schools

 

CC: Harnett County Board of Education and Western Harnett High School Administration

 

We, the parents, students, alumni, and community members of Western Harnett High School, are asking Harnett County Schools to reconsider the decision to eliminate the choir program and remove its dedicated teacher effective October 31, 2025.

 

The choir program has changed lives — including the life of a 9th-grade student who once struggled so deeply with her mental health that she couldn’t attend school for two years. Thanks to choir, she now looks forward to school every single day. Stories like hers are not unique. Choir has given countless students confidence, belonging, friendship, and purpose.

 

Choir is not just singing. It’s teamwork, leadership, discipline, emotional growth, and mental health support — all rolled into one safe and creative space.

 

Western Harnett’s choir families already fundraise for everything beyond the teacher’s salary. Concerts, trips, uniforms, and equipment are all paid for through hard work and community effort. Cutting this program does not save the district money — it only silences dozens of young voices who have found hope and healing through music.

 

We respectfully request that the Harnett County Board of Education and administration:

 

Reconsider the decision to eliminate the choir program.
Retain the current choir teacher. 
Explore alternatives such as grants, or community partnerships to sustain the program long-term.

 

 

Please stand with us to protect arts education and ensure Western Harnett High students continue to have the opportunity to learn, sing, and thrive.

 

Don’t silence their song — let them keep their voices.

 

#SaveWesternChoir #ArtsMatter #LetThemSing