SaskMusic urging action as budget cuts threaten Regina’s Public-School music program
Music directly correlated to student and youth health
We are raising the alarm about reported cutbacks 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, band teachers affected by the cuts have reported that they will not be teaching band in the fall and will be reassigned.
According the Saskatchewan Arts Alliance (SAA) these cuts continue a pattern of erosion, including a 40 per cent reduction in band teaching staff since 2022. As a result, students will face fewer supports, larger class sizes, and significantly reduced access to arts education.
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:
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