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Central board's tune: No changes to music
After considering a change that would have moved the Union East Elementary School band and chorus programs to afterschool activities, the Cheektowaga Central Board of Education voted Tuesday to stick with the status quo.
The decision came just minutes after fifth grade students from Union East performed "Street Corner Symphony," a musical presentation promoting cultural awareness.
The performance and public hearing on the 2007-08 district budget attracted approximately 200 parents and students to the high school auditorium.
Union East Principal Kathleen Rudewicz recently suggested the after school program to the board in order to provide more math instruction to the elementary school students.
As New York State education standards continue to rise, district officials are looking for methods to ensure students are prepared for math exams.
Rudewicz noted that, with a regular music class and also band or chorus, some students were receiving more music instruction than mathematics.
Rudewicz surveyed parents of third and fourth grade students to gather their opinions, and reaction was mixed.
"There's a tremendous amount of support for doing it after school," Rudewicz said, noting support was strongest among parents of third graders. "But numerous parents have called with concerns."
Major concerns dealt with students who have other after-school activities, such as religious education. Transportation was another issue.
Trustee Renee Wilson said that she reviewed forms filled out by parents, and was concerned with parents' feedback.
"The results really aren't that hot," Wilson said.
Addressing transportation issues, Wilson noted that the busing policy is different for after-school programs. Students who stay after school are dropped off at the nearest intersection to their homes, rather than at their driveway.
"I would not put my daughter in that situation," said Wilson, noting a recent flier from the district listed "six or seven" sex offenders living in the area.
Board President Brian Gould noted that, regardless of the board's decision, additional math instruction time was needed.
"We'll find more time," Rudewicz pledged. "Mrs. Wilson's points are all concerns. There's five or ten minutes here or there to tweak."
The following students were recognized as students of the month:
+ Kaitlyn Kicak, Owen McCullor and Amy Zelasko at Pine Hill Primary Center.
+ The fifth grade students at Union East.
+ Kari Orlowski and Lucas Brassard at the middle school.
+ "Challenge students" and their 2006-07 activities and projects at the high school.
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