Don't cut Hersey's guitar program

I am saddened by the news that John Hersey High School would like to reduce the orchestra director's position to part-time by cutting the guitar programs that he is also in charge of.

It is naive of the school to think that a part-time position would continue to strive for excellence as well as maintain all the extra activities, such as contests and clinics, vital to our children's growth in this area.

I believe the fine arts program is every bit as important as the other activities, such as sports and dance, that the school offers. It is unfair to say enrollment in one area is down when he teaches over 100 students in two periods.

What (message) do you think this situation will send to the middle schools in the district that are teaching hundreds of kids and preparing them for high school? In many cases, this is the only means of a child expressing themselves.

I hope the school will see the importance of a full-time director and reconsider their position.

Randee Miller

Prospect Heights