To Stay or Not to Stay?

What to do if your child is considering withdrawal from the string program.

We believe that the Strongsville elementary strings program is a worthwhile activity for all students, and we work hard to make it a good experience.  However, we realize that this program is not for everyone, and although we’d like to keep every student, we realize it is not always possible to do so.

Some things to consider before withdrawing from the program:

1)      Students are REQUIRED to take a music class in the seventh grade.  The choices are band, orchestra, choir and general music.  No beginning instrumental lessons are taught at the middle school.  General music is an overview of musical history and concepts that most instrumental music students have already learned.  Students who enroll in choir MUST be willing to sing.   We recommend that you and your child weigh the options carefully so that the middle school music experience is worthwhile.

2)      Sometimes, students get frustrated and might need a little more time to grasp a concept or master a skill.  It might just take a little more practice and a little help from the teacher to get over the hump and back on track. 

3)      If the difficulty is caused by a schedule conflict, talk to your teacher!  Often, a compromise can be worked out to allow a student to continue participation. 

4)      Please do NOT withdraw immediately before a performance. It is unfair to the other members of the ensemble and to the teacher.  Besides, you might find out that concerts are fun!

5)      Try talking to the teacher before making a decision.  Maybe another instrument would suit your child better, or a change can be made to make the student more comfortable.  We want to try to keep as many students as we can and are willing to help!

If the decision is made to withdraw from the class, the teacher MUST be notified in writing.  This is to ensure that the parents, student, classroom teacher, and music teacher are all on the same page.  It is NOT acceptable to simple stop showing up to lessons or to send word with another student.   Students will receive grades until a written notice of withdrawal is received.