To the editor:

I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you for the extraordinary amount of support demonstrated toward the future of the Langley Middle School jazz program.

We ate together, listened to these extraordinary kids, built community and met our financial goal. Together, we saved a public school program that gives kids a place to excel beyond anyone’s expectations simply because they want to. This is a direct testament to the efforts of this community.

Each person who bought a ticket to the Useless Bay Coffee Company fundraiser, bought an auction item, donated an auction item, donated money or stood up for what they believed in via e-mail, letters, phone calls or speeches in front of the school board and administration made this success possible.

In addition, I’m impressed by the students who sold lemonade and sweets, played music on the weekend, signed petitions, interviewed with the newspaper, wrote letters to the school board and administration, spoke at school board meetings and spread the word!

Some of these students were not even members of the LMS Band or jazz program, but felt so strongly compelled to advocate for the students who were. These dedicated students did not rely on adults to do all the work, but creatively came up with ways to respond to the problem and make it a joint effort.

A special word of thanks to Des and Tracy Rock, Marty and Peggy Fernandez, Margot Jerome, members of the Useless Bay Coffee Company staff and all of the current LMS Jazz Band students and parents who made the jazz band fundraiser a complete success, filled with selflessness, creativity, sense of community and celebration. What a great way to wrap up a school year.

Jess Foley

LMS Band Director