Our School District and Board of Education were once again faced with budgetary constraints as the Governor and the Legislature continued to be at odds about the importance of fully funding education and investing in the future of our children, their education and our schools.

The Mason City Community has been extremely supportive in so many ways to ensure that our students have opportunities to learn not only inside the classroom but also outside through performance based experiences. For this constant support we are grateful.

As many of you know three years ago we made a collaborative decision with the MCCSD Administration, the Vocal Music Department and the School Board to produce a musical every other year to save fund raising efforts and people resources.

2008- Jesus Christ Superstar
2009 Off Year
2010 The Drowsy Chaperone
2011 Off Year

As we began the renovation planning and process at the John Adams and MCHS complex we learned that some major work would be happening during the summer of 2012 that would basically close the music wing at the high school from April-August in 2012. This prompted us (Mr. Everist, Mr. Jumper, & Dr. Micich) to have conversations regarding moving the musical into the 2011 summer instead of 2012.

At the same time, with the need to reduce costs again for the 2011-2012 school year and in an effort to preserve teaching positions the administration along with the music department staff looked for dollars that could contribute to this effort. It was determined through input from vocal music staff that by not moving the musical up a year from the original schedule we could realize some savings (resources and money). These dollars, along with savings from sharing a superintendent, staff attrition, operations and materials cost reductions could all contribute to preserving teaching positions for 2011-2012.

All of us, the board, administrators, teachers, students, families and community, value the experience and learning that is gained from the summer musical. We also understand that there is a level of disappointment amongst students and families to not produce a musical.

Mr. Everist, Dr. Micich and Mr. Jumper will re-visit the every other year schedule for the musical during the 2011-2012 fall semester to review potential costs, rehearsal space availability and budget. No decisions or promises can be made at this time for the summer of 2012, however we want to assure our families and students that we will make every effort to give serious consideration to this dynamic musical education experience.

No K-12 vocal or instrumental music staff was reduced for 2011-2012 so our students and programs are able to continue to grow and thrive.