Mr. Armstrong,

This past holiday I found myself writing a note to my son’s eighth grade band director. I wanted her to know the roots she had planted in my son’s musical education were blossoming. Three years ago we struggled to find an answer to academic and behavior issues with our child who was a middle-schooler at the time. While he was not a problem student, the signs were there that he was beginning to choose the wrong kind of friends and succumbing to a self-image less worthy of who he truly was. Sorting through his abilities and positive influences, we found that music and band was one place he could make progress and we could cheer him on.

We moved to the Newnan/Sharpsburg area for one reason only--to get him into a band program that we felt was the best. We weren’t concerned about time or sacrifice; with several children we decided just to do the best we could do. Our son attended his first band camp last summer and came back excited and committed to the Northgate Band. Most importantly, we saw he felt a sense of belonging and acceptance. We praised his efforts during the long practice hours, made band performances family events, and have even carved for ourselves, a niche in the Northgate community where we can have a nice time among familiar faces. (Football season was great fun!)

Music education has had a profound effect in our child’s life. We believe the personal growth and character fostered in the band program outweighs the academic, although there is no doubt they go hand-in-hand. At the near-close of this school year, I’m happy to report we are watching our son’s grades continue to improve along with his maturity. His last Interim grade report showed he would make honor roll next report card period if he continues to keep it up. It will be the first time in 8 years.

Warm regards,
Danielle T.