Ms. Cheryl: Why I Am Leaving the Flagler Youth Orchestra

Very few schools have strings programs. This was something unique and special provided for 350 children. Yes, there are many after school programs, some of them funded by gov. Ever hear of Latchkey? There are 21stC Community Learning Centers (federally funded) and they exist in Florida.
21st Century Community Learning Centers

But you are worried about a measly 30k stipend (no bennies)? What a crock of shit. That's nothing. Heck, the school might have even afforded her stipend with Title I or 21stC funds, which are earmarked for enrichment. Just admit that you either don't value the arts or are intent upon carrying the water of these horrible SB members.

And hell yeah I'm critical when someone suggests that musicians donate their time and talent for free. That's an all-too-frequent, but ignorant take. To your last point, I'll bet dollars-to-donuts that many or most of the parents contributed to the program. You're just assuming that the parents do not, but how do you think they afforded instruments for 350 kids? The parents likely assisted with and contributed to the fundraisers.

BTW - these were not flute lessons for Timmy, which absolutely should come at an expense, esp. with the one-on-one. This was a community and ensemble endeavor. Of course the parents loved it for what it was. Stop trying to cheapen the arts and quit the BS "she shouldn't be paid by the district." She was providing a valuable experience for hundreds (thousands over the years) of school children from the district . . . for a pittance.

 

Yeah, the parents just liked it cause it was free . Testimonial from their website:

Testimonials
As parents and residents of Palm Coast for more than 23 years, we want you to know how our family has been impacted by FYO.

Our oldest daughter Annabel is 12, and has just completed her fourth year with FYO. She has flourished in the program, dedicating hours to practice at home, and this year progressed to the Harmony Chamber Orchestra. Due to her obvious commitment and dedication, we recently invested in a "concert" violin, after renting instruments for years. Annabel admires her peers in the program and is continually inspired by her dedicated, talented instructors. She shares her talent with others at church events, educational events, a sporting event, and recently at a nursing home.

Our middle daughter, Betsy is 9 and finished her second year with the orchestra. We are so proud of her artistic accomplishments. As a shy, quite student, having the ability to read music and play violin in the "orchestra" setting has given her confidence....she is a part of something bigger than herself. Her performance skills have improved significantly and she is looking forward to advancing in the FYO. She shared this past week that she has her eye on the "first chair" position!

Our youngest daughter Chloe has been anticipating being a part of FYO for several years. (She is eligible to join the program in the fall as a third grader.) She was recently measured for her instrument and last week, came home with a violin. Her sisters have begun giving her advice and instruction and when they practice, Chloe pulls out her instrument. She is counting the weeks until she's a member of FYO herself.

 

Anecdotal point re: 21st C Learning Centers. When I taught elementary school in FL, one of our faculty wrote a 21st C Learning grant. It was for hundreds of thousands and involved a number of after school programs, including a beginning band. In addition to the instruments, music, stands, and reeds, etc. the grant paid my stipend and I was paid a pretty good hourly rate. So yes, gov funds do go to after school music programs that are housed on school campuses.