RESOLUTION PASSED BY THE D.C. CONGRESS OF P.T.A.S
AT ITS ANNUAL CONVENTION MAY 20, 2000

IN COLLABORATION WITH
CHIME (COMMUNITY HELP IN MUSIC EDUCATION)

The Importance of Music Curriculum in the D.C. Public Schools

WHEREAS, The D.C. Congress of Parents and Teachers (DCPTA) recognizes that a number of recent studies have shown the academic, emotional and social benefits of music study in the early grades; and

WHEREAS, music education and proficiencies can provide promising careers to individuals; and

WHEREAS, Instrumental music study on the part of children promotes self-discipline, self-confidence and self-satisfaction; and

WHEREAS, the performance of music in schools promotes stronger development of musical skills and offers rewarding experiences for students; and

WHEREAS, a comprehensive music program in the schools, including classes, individual instrumental instruction and performances strengthens parental and community involvement and support for schools; and

WHEREAS, reading musical notes and rhythms reinforces reading and mathematical abilities in ways that may lead to higher standardized test scores; and

WHEREAS, music instruction is inadequate in many District of Columbia Public Elementary Schools; now

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, The D.C. Congress of Parents and Teachers will encourage District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) authorities, including the Board of Education, the Superintendent of Schools and officials responsible for curriculum development, to include music instruction in the core curriculum of elementary schools; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the DCPTA will support DCPS authorities in their efforts to implement the existing standards for music education; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, DCPS consider hiring qualified part-time adjunct music instructors to help implement its music instruction goals as quickly as possible.

Community Help in Music Education (CHIME) • 1789 Lanier Pl. • Suite 3 • Washington, DC • 20009
Email: info@chime-dc.org