The Ketchikan Gateway Borough School Board held a special meeting on April 12, 2025, to discuss pressing issues regarding the district's music education programs and the challenges faced by educators. The meeting featured passionate testimonies from teachers and community members who expressed concerns about the impact of multi-age teaching positions on student engagement and educational quality.

One teacher highlighted the difficulties of teaching music across multiple schools, noting that maintaining strong connections with students is challenging when managing a high volume of classes. The educator emphasized that the frequent turnover of music teachers at Point Higgins and Fawn Mountain has negatively affected the quality of music education, leading to diminished student interest and participation. They urged the board to consider these factors when making decisions about staffing and program structures, stressing the importance of consistent instruction for fostering relationships with students.

Another speaker, Darby Mainardi, commended the board for their willingness to revisit the issue and encouraged them to consider community feedback. Mainardi expressed frustration with the presentation of new educational options, suggesting that the information provided was not clear enough to facilitate informed decision-making.

The discussions underscored the community's commitment to preserving and enhancing music education within the district. As the board deliberates on future staffing and program decisions, the voices of educators and community members will play a crucial role in shaping the direction of Ketchikan's educational landscape.