Suddenly the question of whether there will be an elementary school music education program is a sizzling topic for discussion.
Obtaining a precise answer has been elusive.
One of the people most interested in a square answer is Andy Pascoe, formerly a music teacher in the School District.
Mr. Pascoe spoke out forcefully at Tuesday night’s School Board meeting — about those who have criticized his working style and the inarguable need for a firm music education in elementary school.
So will there be a music program next school year?
Probably, the administration is indicating, but the form remains liquid, “a work in progress,” as Supt. Patti Jaffe said.
Mr. Pascoe, among numerous other educators and parents, would like to know definitely.
Laid off last year, he has been waiting that long in the hope that another music teacher might leave or retire.
With Joe Nazaretta of the Culver City Middle School retiring, “there should be a place for him,” says David Mielke, President of the Teachers Union.
“But now the talk of ‘reorganizing’ the music program in the District is making us nervous.
“Under the law, a laid off teacher has rehire rights. So a position becoming available would need to go to Andy Pascoe.
“If they eliminate a position, though, there's no place for him to come back to.
“We have told the District that if they do away with that position and try to provide elementary music from outside sources, we would fight that as a violation called ‘contracting out,’” Mr. Mielke said.
