BSD Board Discusses BIS Music Program

In mid-September, controversy erupted over the future of the Burlingame Intermediate School music program after several classes were cut from the regular school day. At that time, the Burlingame Elementary School District Board of Trustees decided against making a final decision for the 2012-2013 school year’s program, opting to explore a narrowed down list of options.

Music staffing at BIS was reduced for the 2012-2013 school year, leaving one teacher for classes at BIS and also some programming at the elementary schools. In order to provide music to as many students as possible, 6th grade Concert Band, Guitar and Choir were kept in the curriculum during the school day, as they are open to all students.

Intermediate Jazz Band and Advanced Jazz Band, which have historically met during the school day, were moved to zero period twice a week, with 7th/8th grade Concert Band meeting twice a week, either at zero period or after school Tuesday, and 6th grade Jazz Band meeting after school Tuesday, as well.

All Jazz Band members are required to participate in Concert Band, so while Jazz Band students continue to meet many days a week, it is split between two styles of music, and Concert Band-only players are reduced to twice a week classes.

At Tuesday’s school board meeting, trustees will discuss music class scheduling for 7th/8th Concert Band and the various Jazz Bands for the remainder of this school year. Moving forward, board members recommend 7th/8th Concert Band be offered during the school day and Jazz Band offered during zero period.

The School District Board of Trustees meets at 7 p.m. at the District Office at 1825 Trousdale Dr.

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