We are raising the alarm about reported reductions coming to the Regina Public Schools elementary band program.
On May 20th, 2025, the Leader Post published an article about potential “reductions to, or a restructuring of” the Regina Public Schools elementary band program.
Although the Regina Public School Division has not issued an official statement as of May 28, 2025, we understand that while elementary band programs will continue in the fall, staffing reductions are planned.
According the Saskatchewan Arts Alliance (SAA) these reductions will place further strain on a program that is already under significant pressure.
"With fewer specialist educators available, students could see reduced access to meaningful music instruction. The proposed changes, part of a larger pattern of cuts to arts education more broadly, have already reduced opportunities for students and are placing serious strain on a vital part of their education," the SAA notes.
Music and the arts have been proven to be a driving force behind academic, emotional, and social development for youth. International peer-reviewed case studies show that music education in schools, among other things:
- Develops motor, listening, reading, and emotional skills
- Develops self-confidence
- Improves academic performance
- Helps students better engage with school
- Assists in fostering community pride
As such, SaskMusic is deeply concerned about reported cuts and restructuring to Regina Public School’s band program, which will undoubtedly impact Saskatchewan’s next generation of musicians, audiences and artists.
“We have seen firsthand the positive impact that early music education can have on student development and confidence,” Lorena Kelly, SaskMusic's executive director says.
“These deeper cuts continue a pattern of loss for the arts in schools, which not only further limits opportunities for students to engage with music but directly impacts student health in the classroom and at home.”
Please see below a message prepared by our colleagues at the SAA for information on how you can take action via writing letters, signing a petition, or reading and sharing the SAA’s letter to the Minister of Education HERE.
For information and case studies outlining the importance of music education in schools, here are some suggested links:
- https://www.savethemusic.org/blog/jdilla-musictech-casestudy/
- https://www.savethemusic.org/blog/newark-case-study/
- https://www.savethemusic.org/blog/advocacy/new-orleans-case-study/
- https://www.savethemusic.org/blog/west-virginia-case-study/
- https://bandology.ca/about-us/our-services/resources/
- https://today.usc.edu/music-education-research/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8037606/
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/the-athletes-way/201906/music-participation-is-linked-to-teens-academic-achievement
Information about SaskMusic:
SaskMusic is a non-profit, member-based creative association. We represent, promote and develop the artists and music industry of Saskatchewan, Canada through one-on-one guidance, educational initiatives, marketing and export assistance, advocacy, networking opportunities and much more. We are a source of information and resources for the public and the music industry.
