by Ieisha Monroe and David Stodulski
Arts programs across the country face challenges. At Varina, teachers and students said band, chorus, art and drama need more funding and participation.
“I do not believe there is enough support for the arts,” band director Christopher Moseley said.
Dr. Alvin Campbell teaches one chorus class with only 30 students. Dr. Campbell said participation is one of many challenges that the arts face.
“The challenge in participation right now is to develop the interest level. We are trying to redevelop the interest level in vocal music,” Dr. Campbell said.
Principal Tracie Omohundro said a good teacher is key in boosting participation.
“The department has dwindled significantly in recent years. Dr. Campbell has come in with an eye for revitalizing the program,” Mrs. Omohundro said.
Senior Oliver Remley is in band. He believes the program would be more successful if more students signed up for it.
“Other students should participate because it teaches students life skills that the classroom can’t teach,” Oliver said.
Funding is also a challenge.
“You can always use more funding for the arts,” Mrs. Omohundro said. “The kids would like more field trip opportunities. They would like not to have to fundraise to buy their own costumes and things like that, but I don’t think we are underfunded compared to other schools.”
Henrico County Public Schools Music Education Specialist Rick Tinsley said the shape of the economy effects funding.
“The economy has really hurt the arts. So many of our schools have been taking big spring trips every year, but we can’t do that, and we can’t ask parents to do that,” Mr. Tinsley said.
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Eric Jones said arts programs have fared well, even in tough economic times.
“In Henrico County Public Schools, we have not reduced or cut any arts programs in the last five years,” Dr. Jones said. “Given the budget concerns that every school district in the nation has faced, that alone speaks to our commitment to the arts.”
Still, band students have worked the concession stand at football games, sold fruit, held a car wash and hosted a spirit night to raise money. They also plan to sell gourmet snacks and hold a community shred-it day.
Mr. Moseley said the band needs more money to maintain equipment and instruments.
“The biggest challenge is to keep things working. Regular wear and tear plus maintenance of uniforms, equipment, the trailer and keeping up with technology require us to have fundraisers,” Mr. Moseley said.
Despite funding challenges, Mr. Tinsley said there has never been so little money that a student could not pursue music.
“We have never told a child that they cannot join the band because we didn’t have enough instruments, and I would like to keep it that way,” Mr. Tinsley said.
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