Abstract
ASTA Adds New Services!
As school gets into full swing, Congress also begins work on reauthorization of “No Child Left Behind.” This controversial legislation is applauded by proponents who praise its emphasis on accountability. Critics blast the legislation, saying that it encourages “teaching to the test” and focuses on a “one size fits all” approach to education. Almost everyone agrees that there needs to be major changes. As music educators, we should all follow this reauthorization closely and make our voices heard.
In too many school districts, time has been taken away from classes like music, art, and physical education to meet the rigorous demands of preparing for standardized tests. In some cases, programs are being eliminated all together. This hurts all children.
This fall, ASTA is working with state chapters and the membership to develop our new “Congressional Associates” program. It is imperative that we build local, state, and national support for music education. This new program offers legislative leaders a special membership in ASTA where we keep them abreast of string education. We need the help and support of our political leaders to ensure that music and arts education remain a vital force in our schools. I encourage you to look for the alerts that we will be sending out this fall and to take the time to contact your congressmen and senators. ASTA President Mary Wagner and I have met with political leaders in the last few months and they assure us that legislators listen to their constituents. If they receive a few hundred emails from voters encouraging them to make music education a priority then they take notice. ASTA Advocacy Assistant Erin Gallagher stands ready to assist you.
This fall we also launched the brand new “Discovering Strings and Orchestra” program. This initiative focuses on introducing seven and eight year olds to string instruments through community programs such as Girl Scouts and Learning for Life. ASTA provides all the tools that you need to promote strings in your area. This project is funded by NAMM and includes a student recruitment video, a coloring and activity book, and a participation patch. Consider volunteering your time to serve as a clinician. More information is available on the website.
You can also check the website to download our new DVD “Advocating for Strings.” This DVD highlights the benefits of playing a string instrument and includes interviews with prominent musicians and pedagogues. We hope that you will find this tool useful in your own advocacy efforts. It can be used with sponsors, parents, administrators, and community leaders. This DVD was funded by several members of the String Industry Council, including: CodaBow International, D'Addario, Heinrich Gill, Knilling, National Youth Orchestra, and Yamaha Corporation of America.
It is never too soon to make advocacy a priority for your program. By building a solid foundation of support now, you will be ready if your program becomes at-risk. We are here to support your efforts in any way we can.
ASTA Board of Directors