Commentary When the community leads, the arts thrive. Save the arts in the Edmonds School District

The Edmonds School District is experiencing a significant crisis as ongoing budget cuts threaten the elimination of eleven music and choir classes, which will affect hundreds of students. In response, the Foundation for Edmonds School District initiated the Save the Arts campaign, aiming to raise $434,000 by June 30, 2025, to preserve these essential programs. Classes at risk include choir and jazz band programs across multiple middle and high schools. Students from low-income families, who may not afford private music lessons, will be disproportionately affected, exacerbating existing educational inequities. Last year, community contributions managed to restore music classes at seven schools, showcasing the impact of local support.

The Mountlake Terrace High School Jazz Band even earned a place at the prestigious Essentially Ellington competition, highlighting the quality of education at stake. If the community does not rally to support these programs, music education opportunities may be lost forever. The Foundation believes that every child deserves a well-rounded education, including access to the arts.