LEAVITTSBURG - LaBrae Local Schools are seeking used musical instruments for students who otherwise wouldn't be able to participate in band.
The district began the instrument drive two months ago, and about a dozen have been donated so far, school board member L.D. Hartman, community relations liaison, said
Hartman, who was a former LaBrae band member and athlete, is spearheading the effort to get instruments for students whose families cannot afford them.
Some older instruments the district already had were able to be repaired, but others were just too worn out, he said.
''We have tried to salvage and fix up as many instruments that we can,'' he said.
The district offers band for seventh to 12th grades, with a junior high band and a high school band. The elementary school has music and choir for up to sixth grade with some instruments, such as flutes, being used.
Superintendent Pat Guliano said there has been an increase of interest among the elementary students wanting band. But with state funding cuts looming, the district may not be able to support such an endeavor on its own.
''The district has grave concern as to its ability to sustain the current level of funding for band instruments,'' he said.
Donations of band instruments can be dropped off at the board office. Donations are tax deductible. For information, call 330-898-1393 or 330-719-2120.