JSO saves after-school program threatened by budget cuts

When notified in early January that after-school programming in many Jackson area schools would be ending due to state budget cuts, the JSO stepped up to help.

For several years, the JSO has operated a very successful after-school strings program, which was developed for children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to be exposed to music. These classes were held at Bennett School and were fully funded by JSO contributors. The program was operated in conjunction with JPS after-school programming and depended on state and federal grants to pay for bus transportation to take the children home afterward.

“Without transportation, the at-risk program cannot function because these children need a safe way to get home,” said Mary Spring, JSO Development Director. 

Knowing that the “After-School String Program for Children at Risk” would fail without transportation, JSO board members, staff and private supporters pledged this month to provide funds to continue bus transportation for the Bennett Elementary School’s after-school music program. 

Since its inception in 2001, JSO donors have committed more than $44,000 to support music outreach programs for children at risk. More than 300 children have used the program and benefited from the ability to have music play a role in their lives. 

JSO donors also have assisted in the purchase of more than 40 violins used in the program. The Hurst Foundation recently approved a grant of $5,000, which supports the JSO teachers and coaches who provide this instruction at Bennett Elementary School. 

The JSO has received pledges of additional support to assist with transportation. The program will continue for the rest of the 2003/2004 school year.

For more information on how you can assist, please call Mary Spring 782-3221.