Over the last two and a half years, we have seen considerable growth and success in our orchestra program across the district. These developments and accomplishments are exciting! We are so proud of our students for their dedication, and we are grateful to Mr. Baker and Mr. Shimp for their hard work with our musicians and vision for the CG orchestra program. However, along with the program growth, some challenges and concerns have also arisen.
- Because of building specific duties, the shared instructor position between CGHS and MSC, and Mr. Shimp's additional duties to the percussion program at MSN, students receive less instruction time and less help from the directors.
- The student numbers are growing at a rate at the middle schools to the point that students no longer fit in the classrooms. Though we are grateful for additional space that came with the MSN addition, MSC did not see more classroom space and was moved to the LGI for the remainder of the year.
- Teacher retention for the MSC/CGHS position has been an ongoing issue. Frequent changing of teachers disrupts the student learning process as well as program coherence. This creates student frustration and ultimately leads to lower student retention. Teachers being spread too thin is a large contributing factor to teacher turnover. Currently, Mr. Baker leads 8 different ensembles across the district whereas other CG music program directors lead 2-4.
- Student to teacher ratio for the Orchestra program is higher than any other music program in the district.
- Orchestra 239:1
- Band 146:1
- Choir 233:1
In early December, hiring an additional full-time string director for the remainder of the year will be up for discussion with the CG corporation. The CG Orchestra Council and string directors believe this move is essential to providing the high quality education our students deserve.
