SISD Logo (Credit: KFOX14/CBS4)
EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Parents in the Socorro Independent School District (SISD) are expressing shock and concern over potential cuts to fine arts programs in elementary schools, which could take effect next year.
Union officials and fine arts teachers have indicated that most elementary students may lose access to these programs.
Jennifer Lucero, a parent of an eighth-grade student who plays the violin, credits her son's academic success to his involvement in music. She worries that her younger son, currently in first grade, will not have the same opportunities.
"You want to look forward to not only going to math class but also going to band class or their orchestra class too," Lucero said.
Karina Hernandez, a mental health counselor, explained the benefits of music and art education for students.
"Later it would turn into better focus for children, better attention, better memory, not to mention social skills," Hernandez said. "When kids miss something, you create a sense of abandonment in them. So you’re going to start seeing behavioral problems, lack of trust in kids."
Lucero mentioned that if SISD proceeds with the cuts, she would consider moving her children to another district.
Felipa Solis, executive director of Pro Musica, a community music outreach organization, emphasized the importance of arts in education.
"You can’t take the arts for granted. Because children who are involved in band and orchestra and art programs, their grades improve. This is sometimes a pathway to higher education," Solis said.
Hernandez echoed this sentiment, highlighting the broader benefits of arts education.
"There are so many benefits. Self-esteem, confidence. When you create music or you create an art piece, even if it’s oil, whatever it is you’re doing, you’re creating a sense of confidence," she said.
Many parents hope that upcoming board meetings will reconsider the decision to cut fine arts programs.
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