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Statement on Funding the Arts:

As most people likely already know, South Hadley Town Meeting has approved a plan to avoid cuts at the schools for the 2026-27 school year. This is a stopgap measure that is only good for one school year, but at least we know our performing arts programs will be funded for that one year. 

While SHMPA no longer has to raise close to $183,000 to fund the entire performing arts program at the middle and high schools, we do still have significant responsibilities to these programs. At the May 20 school committee meeting, SHMPA presented a check to fund the two stipended marching band positions that we had also funded last year after they had been cut. We will continue to provide funding for uniform maintenance, equipment, transportation, and supplies, as well as pit musicians for the Harlequins musical. And, because the budget beyond the 26-27 school year is anybody’s guess, we also will be doing quite a bit of fundraising throughout the year to build up our reserves and to ensure that we can provide as much assistance as possible.

We are very grateful for everyone who has donated to SHMPA so far- every little bit helps! We hope you will join us in our ongoing efforts to support the performing arts for our students.