Last year, funds for the Chesterton High School music department were lower than the Chesterton Middle School and the intermediate schools. the music department is an irreplaceable part of our community. There are so many exciting events and opportunities that the students get to participate in through the school’s music program. Whether it is band, orchestra, choir, etc. the opportunities the students will get to participate in all rely on funding. Regrettably, last year’s funds were lower than usual.
“Last year, while the high school did quite well with our fundraiser, we had the least amount of sales out of all four buildings. We were really hoping to improve our sales this year so we can continue to help fund all of the awesome opportunities that we are providing students.” Kristin Morris states.
This was bad news for the students and the community as a whole. The musicians are not the only ones who enjoy the music-related events held by the music department, the whole community enjoys them too. The music programs not only benefit students educationally, but they also provide them with good socializing and teamwork skills. Instruments and music also look good on college resumes. If funding for Duneland music programs goes down, so does the quality of school-owned instruments because they aren’t cheap to repair or replace. If the trend of a low amount of funds being raised continues, it could mean bad news for everyone. The fundraising profit excites students of the possibilities for the department this year and beyond.
“Some events that I am excited for that are funded by the music department are not only the Six Flags trip that most kids get to go on in eighth grade but also the choir get-together.” Saniah Newcome, a member of the CMS choir commented.
The annual fundraiser that the music department holds has just started but regardless, there is no time to lose. Every single dollar donated will be going to the music department and the students. The fact that funds last year were at rock bottom means that the students need to work extra hard to sell as many items as possible. Luckily, the kids will get something in return for their hard work. For however many items a student sells, they will get rewards in return. These rewards vary from cash to a chance to win Apple Airpods Pro. Students have set big goals for themselves regarding the fundraiser.
“One of my personal fundraising goals is to raise a lot more money than I did in my year prior,” Newcome added.
All it takes to donate is to find a student who is participating in any music-related program here at CHS and ask to donate. There is a diverse and wonderful selection of items that are for sale this year. The selection ranges from simple wrapping paper to many great Christmas gifts. Any funds donated will directly benefit the community as a whole.
