The Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) has announced a major investment of $500,000 in additional funding for music education, aimed at expanding access to high-quality music programs for students across the district. 

This new investment, unveiled in June, is in addition to existing music program funding already included in individual school budgets. Each UCDSB school received between $2,000 and $19,000, based on enrollment numbers and current programming. 

The funds will be used to purchase or repair musical instruments, upgrade audio and sound equipment, and acquire other music-related resources to support a wide range of school activities — from music classes and choirs to musicals, plays, and extracurricular clubs. 

“Music can have long-term positive impacts on cognitive abilities, academic success and overall well-being – all things we want for our students,” stated Trustee Michel LaBonte. “Through this investment, all students will have greater access to music and music education at school, which will benefit them for years to come.” 

School staff will have the flexibility to directly allocate the funds according to the unique needs of their school communities, ensuring a tailored approach that maximizes impact on students. 

“With so many pressures on school budgets, I’m proud that we are able to allocate this funding to our schools,” stated Chair of the Board Jamie Schoular. “Music sparks creativity and connection, values which we encourage not just our students but our staff as well. I’m looking forward to hearing the results next year.” 

The UCDSB serves a large and diverse region of Eastern Ontario and says this initiative is part of its broader goal to support student success through inclusive and enriched educational experiences.