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Toronto saves elementary school music program after budget backlash

A last-minute reversal preserves dedicated music education for thousands of students. Why parents and teachers say this program is irreplaceable.

This a picture in a music class, there is a women standing and giving the instructions to the music...
This a picture in a music class, there is a women standing and giving the instructions to the music students and there are four persons who is siting on a chair and they are practicing the music with the guitars. There is a sign board and this a iron road. Background of this people there is a board and there is a wall and there is a door in blue color and on the wall there is a board sticking some papers.

Toronto saves elementary school music program after budget backlash

Toronto’s public school board has reversed its plan to scrap a specialized music program for elementary schools. The decision, announced by provincially appointed supervisor Rohit Gupta, ensures the itinerant music instructor initiative will continue next year. Instructors and trustees have welcomed the move, citing its benefits for students’ development.

The program was originally set for elimination due to budget cuts. Under the new direction from Gupta, all 74 itinerant music instructors will keep their roles. They will continue teaching in 277 schools across the Toronto District School Board.

Penny Provost, the provincial administrator now leading the board, confirmed the program’s continuation. While the decision has been praised, questions remain about its long-term structure. It is still unclear whether regular classroom teachers will take on some music instruction duties or if further consultations on the program’s model will take place.

The reversal means students will keep access to dedicated music education in their schools. The board’s decision highlights the program’s recognised value in fostering creativity, focus, and emotional well-being. For now, the 74 instructors will remain in place, though future adjustments may still be discussed.

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