How We Define Need
The VH1 Save the Music Foundation is actively granting in more than 30 communities around the country. Each of these communities are unique, but many share common challenges such as high-percentages of students receiving free and reduced lunch, and schools with Title1 assistance, etc. When the Foundation is introduced to a new community, there are several questions we ask in order to define the need for grants. Below are some of the questions potential grant recipients will be asked:
- How many elementary schools are in the district?
- How many provide general music?
- How many provide instrumental music? (band or orchestra)
- When do students receive lessons? (in school or after school)
- What is the grade level when students begin to play an instrument in the district?
- How many middle schools are in the district?
- How many provide general music?
- How many provide instrumental music? (band or orchestra)
- When do students receive lessons? (in school or after school)
- Describe the socio-economic status of the district.
- What percentage of students receive free and reduced lunch?
- Provide the number of schools with Title I assistance.
- Is there a plan in place to restore instrumental music in schools where it does not
exist?
The VH1 Save The Music Foundation is dedicated to restoring instrumental music programs to ensure that all children have access to a complete education. In the communities with which we grant, we work at the district level, from the top down. If a need for instrumental music education exists, we look to the superintendent and school board for a commitment to restore music in every school within a district. With a common goal of fully rebuilding, community partnerships are created and instrumental music education is brought back to life.