Helping Students Hit the Right Notes: Ritchie Secures $100,000 for School Music, Band Programs

As students head back to school, State Senator Patty Ritchie is announcing $100,000 in special funding she has secured to help support music and band programs in districts throughout Central and Northern New York.

“For many students, the arts are a big part of the learning experience; helping them to develop their talents, grow and acquire the skills necessary for success,” said Senator Ritchie.

“I’m pleased to provide this funding, which will not only help schools across our region enhance the quality of their music and band programs, but also will increase learning opportunities for students.”

The following school districts will receive $5,000 or more from Senator Ritchie for music and band programs:

Alexandria Central School District                

Altmar-Parish-Williamstown School District                         

Belleville Henderson Central School District             

Carthage Central School District

Central Square Central School District                                                                     

Copenhagen Central School district                                      

General Brown Central School District                                 

Indian River Central School District                          

La Fargeville Central School District                        

Lyme Central School District                                     

Oswego City School District                                                  

Phoenix Central School District                                             

Sackets Harbor Central School District                                 

South Jefferson Central School District                                 

Thousand Islands Central School District      

“Our school’s music program is so integral to student development—it helps to enhance creativity, gives students confidence and lets them excel in ways that aren’t typically seen in a traditional classroom setting,”said South Jefferson Central School District music teacher Sarah Morris. “From instruments to other teaching materials, the funding secured by Senator Ritchie will go a long way towards improving our music program here at South Jefferson.”

“For several years in a row, Phoenix Central School District has been ranked as one of the best communities for music education,” said Judy Belfield, Superintendent of the Phoenix Central School District.

“Not only are we thankful for this funding secured by Senator Ritchie, but also for her willingness to be a partner in our effort to improve opportunities for learning and growth amongst students in the Central New York region and beyond.”

Senator Ritchie’s most recent support for music in our schools builds upon nearly $60,000 she secured last year to help support high school marching bands throughout the region she represents, including school districts in St. Lawrence County. 

(Senator Ritchie is shown in the above photo with the Thousand Islands High School Marching Band during their appearance at the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair)