Joe Sent Me

Waltham, MA - Students, parents, alumni, and community members spoke during public comment at Wednesday night’s Waltham School Committee meeting in support of the Waltham High School Music Unlimited show choir program. Many speakers addressed the committee after concerns that potential schedule changes at Waltham High School could impact the program and reduce rehearsal time. Some students said they were worried the program could potentially be moved to an after-school competitive club rather than remaining part of the school’s academic offerings. Several students shared personal stories about the impact Music Unlimited has had on their lives, describing the program as a place that builds confidence, community, and leadership among students. Students who spoke during the meeting included Ariana Raad, Gabrielle Fox, Owen White, Charlotte McCrary, Anya Hersh, Derek Dowcett, Ashley Dowcett, Anthony Pullano, Alice Svinolobova, Jacob Katz, Sierra Nicholas, Sierra Longstaff, Morgan Brennan, Raffi Sarkissian, Sofia Laviano, and others. Many speakers described the program as an important outlet for students, particularly those who once struggled with confidence or speaking in front of others. Gabrielle Fox, a member of Music Unlimited, said she spoke at the meeting because the program plays a major role in students’ lives. “I really value my dedication and work to this show choir and the people who work just as hard as I do,” Fox said. “It made me upset hearing that they could potentially be making it an after-school competitive club, but it wouldn’t be functionally possible. It is community, it is determination, and it is a place for all trying to find their sense of belonging.” Another student, Ashley Dowcett, also spoke in support of the program and said Music Unlimited has been an important part of her high school experience. “I am very passionate about the group,” Dowcett said. “I felt that it was unfair for our group to be at risk of becoming less than it is due to policies changing that would hurt our rehearsal time. I am really grateful to work with such an amazing, supportive, and kind group of people.” Several students also explained that before joining Music Unlimited they were shy, antisocial, or uncomfortable speaking publicly, but the program helped them build confidence, friendships, and the courage to perform and speak in front of others. Parents and alumni also addressed the committee, speaking about the impact the program has had on students over the years and urging officials to consider the importance of arts programs within the school community. During the meeting, School Committee members said the proposed schedule changes are part of a broader effort to address declining test scores and academic performance at Waltham High School. Recent state MCAS data shows that academic performance at the high school has declined in several subjects in recent years, including English language arts, mathematics, and science. Officials said the district is reviewing scheduling and academic structure in an effort to improve student outcomes and strengthen overall academic performance. Students and supporters argued that programs like Music Unlimited help keep students engaged in school, build confidence, and create a strong sense of community. The large number of students, parents, and alumni who spoke during public comment highlighted the strong impact the Music Unlimited program has had on the Waltham High School community.