By Rita Ann Ezzai Reznick | Florence Unified School District
Posted 10/14/24
The Florence Unified School District has many reasons to celebrate but this reason is music to its ears. The Poston Butte, San Tan Foothills and Florence High marching bands have received a $1,000 …
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By Rita Ann Ezzai Reznick | Florence Unified School District
The Florence Unified School District has many reasons to celebrate but this reason is music to its ears.
The Poston Butte, San Tan Foothills and Florence High marching bands have received a $1,000 donation each from Florence Copper.
Marching bands, often seen as part of a school’s entertainment and spirit, contribute far more to student success than many realize. Numerous studies show that students who participate in music programs such as marching bands often excel in math, reading and science.
Studies have shown that students involved in music programs are more likely to graduate from high school and attend college. According to research published by the College Board, students with four years of music involvement during high school had higher GPAs, stronger test scores and were more likely to pursue higher education than their peers without music education.
In addition to academic gains, participating in a marching band instills discipline, teamwork and leadership skills. Members work together to create seamless performances that require each musician to rely on one another, which teaches collaboration and respect for each other’s contributions.
Despite the undeniable benefits of music education, funding for programs like marching bands has been steadily declining across Arizona and the nation. State funding for arts education has been on the chopping block in recent years, as schools have faced increasing pressure to allocate resources to subjects that are seen as more “essential,” such as math and reading.
This trend is concerning because it overlooks the fact that the arts are critical to a well-rounded education and play an integral role in fostering a love of learning in students.
According to a report from the Arizona Department of Education, schools across the state have seen a 20% decrease in funding for extracurricular activities over the past decade, with music and arts programs being the hardest hit. Many schools have had to rely on fundraising and donations to keep their marching bands, theater groups and art clubs alive.
Florence Copper’s $1,000 donation to each of our three high school marching bands will make a tangible difference in the lives of our students.
Poston Butte’s marching band will use the funds to focus on revamping its percussion section with multi-application keyboard mallets, tambourines, cymbals and a Tom-set on its wish list.
San Tan Foothills looks to use its donation to cover their performance and competition fees for the year. Florence High School is hoping to purchase new reed instruments including clarinets, alto saxophones, baritone saxophones and oboes.
By supporting our marching bands, Florence Copper is helping to ensure that future generations of students will have the opportunity to explore their passions, build lifelong skills, and contribute to the vibrant culture of our schools.
Rita Ann Ezzai Reznick is the director of public relations for the Florence Unified School District.