A Lincoln County nonprofit dedicated to supporting music education has given $24,000 to Lincoln County School District music programs at middle and high schools in Waldport, Toledo, Newport and Lincoln City.
Music is Instrumental awarded $6,000 for music instruments, repairs and supplies to Taft 7-12, Waldport Middle/High and Toledo Junior/Senior schools and $3,000 each to Newport high and middle schools.
Founded in November 2018 by then-principals Majalise Tolan and Nick Lupo along with Christine Tell, Chuck Feist and Mark Sanders, the nonprofit’s goal is to ensure music and music education is a fundamental part of the school district’s curriculum, according to a news release from the district.
The organization was established on four pillars designed to support music classes and since 2019 has raised $500,000 “with every penny supporting music and music education programs in LCSD schools,” nonprofit board member Sanders said in a statement.
“It is proven that music education increases attendance, reading skills, math skills, sense of belonging, self-esteem, and relationships with other students and family members,” Sanders said.
Music is Instrumental responds to specific requests from teachers and principals throughout the year, including instrument repair, replacement, risers, music stands and essential supplies such as reeds and oils.
“Because of their gift, the Waldport music program will be able to upgrade some of our instruments, keep what we own in good repair, and purchase new sheet music as well as bring in specialists to work with our high school ensembles before representing Waldport at festivals,” Waldport music instructor Tim Chase said in the news release.
Music in our schools affects all aspects of the student’s lives – academic AND personal. Keep it going!