Letter to share with school administrators regarding mid-day performances on a school day (should not be considered an absence):
Dear parents,
From time to time, the Cambridge Girls’ Choir performs during the school day when we are invited to take part in a community event. While we acknowledge the inconvenience and the time lost from school, there are many benefits for the girls, the choir and the community when we take part in these events.
The Education Act (S 21.2.e) permits for students to be excused from attendance at school if “the person is absent from school for the purpose of receiving instruction in music and the period does not exceed one-half day in any week.” Creating and performing music is an integral part music instruction according to the Ontario Ministry of Education Arts curriculum.
In addition to the instructional benefits of being involved in music performances the girls are involved in experiences that build strong community connections. They have the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of the community and see the work that is being done by local agencies. These experiences are important parts in a child’s awareness of citizenship and are integral parts of the Ontario social studies curriculum.
Mid-day performances this year will include:
- Launch of the United Way campaign ( September 10th, 2012)
- Tree of Hope Campaign Kick-Off for the Cambridge Memorial Hospital (exact date TBD, approx. Nov 1st)
- Wednesday noon-hour Christmas Concert at St. Andrew’s Church in Kitchener (December 12th, 2012)
We are careful not to commit to too many mid-day events but hope that we can have your support on the occasions when our choir does reach out to the community during a school day.
If you have any other questions regarding school day performances please do not hesitate to contact me through Fiddlesticks Community Centre.
Peter West, Director
Cambridge Girls’ Choir
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