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Like many citizens in Dodgeville, I waited in anticipation to analyze the results of the Dodgeville School District Facilities Task Force Community Survey. I was anxious to see how far forward this community was willing to advance as it pertains to educating our children. After covering school board meetings and talking to those enthusiastic about moving forward, I hoped in the back of my mind that even if things didn't turn out just as everyone wished, those in support wouldn't be entirely deflated by the results.
But unlike many citizens in Dodgeville, I was there to witness the disappointment on the faces of each Task Force member as the results for each section were easily explained away by a data expert.
I had to sit quietly next to Mr. Hemming, Dodgeville Elementary School's music teacher, while the results were read. It was found that Dodgeville School District voters would likely not support a plan to update the music classROOM at the high school. And to make matters worse, when those surveyed were given the opportunity to rank a list of priorities, updating this classroom came in last, inching out even the ill-fated auditorium.
I am positive words could not describe how Mr. Hemming was feeling in that moment. Of all the priorities...a cafeteria/commons, a district office, a library media center, an expansive gymnasium, weight room...I was certain community members would like to see our school's classrooms at their best before other luxuries. But I was wrong too Mr. Hemming.
As someone who spent more time on a music riser than treading on the gymnasium floor in high school, I also shared in your disappointment. It almost seemed like community members lumped the auditorium and music classroom together, and assumed upgrades to a music classroom, a space that choir, band and orchestra ALL utilize, were too much.
While I would have a hard time supporting an auditorium for various reasons, I don't think it's unreasonable for students at our schools to have a safe and clean classroom where they learn about music, something that brought me joy during my own high school career and surely continues to bring joy to those going through the district at all levels.
I've had a week to process the survey results and I am left asking you all this: Why is music still not important in our schools?