Parents pressuring G.S. Lakie to resolve school band issue

By Alejandra Pulido-Guzman - Lethbridge Herald on June 1, 2022.

LETHBRIDGE HERALDapulido@lethbridgeherald.com

After making the decision to move forward without a traditional band program, G.S Lakie Middle School is looking into different scenarios to possibly bring band back in some form.
Parents at G.S Lakie Middle School were shocked recently to find out traditional band was no longer an option, especially for those already enrolled in the program this year. Some found out by word of mouth while others found out through registration for next year. But the school is trying to help their children have other avenues to explore.
The school sent The Herald a statement that reads in part “Fine arts, and music education in particular, is an important component of the student experience at G.S. Lakie Middle School.
Each and every year, the school has endeavoured to provide a wide range of options to allow students to fulfill their musical potential, whether it includes traditional band instruments, vocals, guitar or a wide range of other instruments. Lakie’s dedicated group of teachers go above and beyond every year to provide students with unique fine arts experiences, and the school is extremely proud of the efforts of these wonderful educators.”
Some parents were extremely upset about the decision made by the school, especially since it came as a surprise to many due to the lack of communication coming from the school. It wasn’t until one concerned mother took to social media to create awareness that many found out about the lack of a traditional band program as an option and then a chain reaction unfolded.
When The Herald’s initial article made its way to the public, even more parents started to show concern about music programs across the city.
U of L professor Nick Sullivan expressed concern regarding what that would mean for university programs since music is learned from an early age and if it is stopped, those important skills do not develop to be used for future careers within the music industry.
Share Thomas, a G.S Lakie mother found out about band not being an option while trying to register her daughter going into Grade 6.
“It wasn’t like an actual announcement, no it wasn’t announced at all,” said Thomas.
She said this really concerned her as music helped her with math as a child because it opened up her brain to new experiences.
“By cutting the band program from the school it will affect a high school program, it’ll affect the university music program, these kids need that foundation in middle school in order to be able to grow,” said Thomas.
Another parent that shared the frustration was Kristi Orr whose son was hoping to get into the band program.
“I understand they’re only offering the band option for Grade 7 and 8 students as an after school activity, so it will no longer be part of the regular school day and that directly affects our family because right now especially in the winter months, he would have to figure out how to get home because I work,” said Orr.
She said her son also mentioned to her the fact that nobody wants to go to school after school, no matter how much they love band.
“By the time school’s over they’re tired or hungry, they want to come home, they don’t wanna sit through another class,” said Orr.
After learning of the traditional band’s fate, Thomas created a group on Facebook called Save Our Lethbridge School Music Programs! Where she was able to inform multiple parents and have open discussions about the matter.
After receiving the support of over 200 people, Thomas and Orr had an interview with the school principal on Monday. The results were positive and Orr said she was hopeful.
Details about the meeting could not be shared with the public as the resolution is a work in progress but Orr posted the following statement on Facebook.
“Myself,(Kristi), and two other parents, Sharelyn and Locke, had a positive and open meeting today with G.S. Lakie administration and District 51 curriculum representative. We were given the floor to raise concerns and to ask questions. These concerns were received respectfully and with compassion.”
“The administration discussed in some detail the efforts that have been undertaken as well as steps currently underway to possibly bring band, in some form, to grades 6, 7, and 8 at G.S. Lakie.” 
“The Administration provided a few scenarios that are still in the works. There will be changes to be sure but change can be a good thing. As long as band is still on the table, no matter how creatively it is brought about, I think is a good thing.”
“Adjustments will be part of the plan, and there are potential challenges with any of the possible scenarios presented. Overall, the long-term sustainability of the program is an important consideration within the actions being considered.”
“The three of us feel that our concerns have been heard and that efforts are underway to address these concerns and ensure that band can continue at G.S. Lakie. While this is not currently a certainty, through this meeting we felt optimistic that band will be able to continue if the plans currently being pursued materialize.”
“Thank you to everyone who has shown support for us as parents who have taken it upon ourselves to voice our concerns to the school administration. Thank you to our wonderful music teachers and to our musical children. Our administration is going to great lengths to ensure that we don’t lose the band program at G.S. Lakie, and it is now up to us to continue to show that we are supportive of them and the band program.”

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