Dream fades with cutback of music

It is with a heavy heart that I want to share my concerns about Indian Prairie Unit District 204's recent program and personnel cuts. I grew up in District 204 schools and now have purchased property in Naperville with the anticipation of sending my young daughter through the same district I grew up in.

Looking back, I can name every single one of my music teachers. From general music in kindergarten to early-morning rehearsals in fifth grade band, from switching to a new instrument in middle school during technique class to performing in the high school marching band and playing in the top concert band.

My love for music was nurtured by the best music program in the nation. It's true that several Grammy Awards now reside in my old music department, but I didn't need a trophy to know I had the musical experience of a lifetime. I was saddened to hear that District 204 is laying off many excellent music teachers and making major cuts at the middle school level. With the middle school band and orchestra staff cut in half, how can our young students learn and grow in the most vital years of their musical development?

The elimination of technique classes may seem minor, but inevitably our high school music program will suffer. These small group lessons are, in some cases, the only personal instruction on their instruments that students receive. We are eroding the base of our music program, and the consequences are undeniable.

As I reflect back on my music education, I sadly see that dream fading away for my daughter. Why are we letting one of our district's strongest programs crumble at its foundation? If you feel the same way that I do, please let the District 204 superintendent know how you feel.

Erin Latawiec

Naperville