Rhode Island MEA Legislation Becomes Law!

10425041_319892971518007_145412076010581560_n

 

 

Not only have wins for music education happened at the federal level, but another milestone has been reached in Rhode Island! Performing music classes are now strongly encouraged to be offered in every middle and high school, thanks to a bill that the Rhode Island Music Educators Association has advocated for. The legislation was signed on July 10 by Governor Gina Raimondo and is a historic step for the Ocean State.

 

The law is designed to increase access to band, chorus, orchestra, and performing ensembles for secondary students.  This is a tremendous example of the power of state leadership in advocacy, and a testament to the hard work of RIMEA members. The next step, says RIMEA Advocacy Chair Nicole Denton, is to focus on scheduling to ensure students have meaningful access to these music courses. Congratulations to our colleagues in Rhode Island for their dedication and success! To read more on the legislation, please click here.

 

Alexandra Eaton, NAfME Legislative Policy Advisor, July 17, 2015. © National Association for Music Education (NAfME.org).