SAA’s Response: Band Program Cuts

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a boy walking across grass with a cloudy blue sky behind him. He is holding a ukelele.
Response to Regina Public School Board Decision on Band Program Cuts
A bold, stylized graphic with a red textured background features the message "Stop Funding Cuts to Band in Regina Public Schools" in large white block letters on the left. On the right, a large white treble clef is overlaid by a prohibition symbol, visually reinforcing opposition to band program cuts. The design is simple, high-contrast, and impactful.The Saskatchewan Arts Alliance (SAA) is disappointed to learn, through updates shared by the Stop Defunding Band in Regina Public Schools Facebook group, that at the June 24 Regina Public School Board meeting, trustees approved a budget that includes cuts to elementary band programs. While official minutes and recordings have not yet been posted, this development confirms the concerns that have mobilized hundreds of parents, students, educators, and community members over the past several weeks.
As we have stated throughout this campaign, music education is not an “extra,” it is a fundamental part of a well-rounded education that supports students’ cognitive development, academic success, and emotional well-being. These cuts are not a restructure. They are a loss.
We are especially discouraged that only one trustee publicly acknowledged the harm these cuts will cause, and suggested the reasonable option of using reserve funds to support a proper review and restructuring process.
With this decision now confirmed, the SAA will archive the letter-writing campaign. We remain committed to supporting advocacy efforts around music education and welcome anyone who wishes to discuss this further to reach out to us directly at info@saskartsalliance.ca.
Once the official meeting minutes and recordings are made available, we will review them and share any pertinent updates. We will also be sharing a summary report soon about the number of letters submitted and the overall reach of the campaign.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who took action by writing letters, spreading the word, and standing up for the role of the arts in our public schools. Your voices matter, and we will continue to advocate for a future where they are heard.