The Dobie Middle School Band program needs YOUR help!

Most students at our school seek the refuge of the band room as a place to be comforted, supported, and motivated. As a community facing many challenges, we provide a place for students to feel empowered by the ability to express themselves through music. We have truly grown to become a family. 

Over the last year, I have seen our mighty Roadrunner band program more than double. This has been very humbling, knowing that our program is attracting more students that want to grow their musical talents.Unfortunately, with such growth, there have also been unforeseen consequences. Our program is so grossly underfunded, that we have resorted to not only sharing instruments, but even sharing mouthpieces. This has caused us and our deserving students some turmoil during this period of growth.

J. Frank Dobie Middle School is located in east Austin. We currently serve approximately 574 students across three grade levels. Our school is 95% economically disadvantaged. This means that most of the students who join band need financial assistance purchasing their band supplies and accessories. Additionally, 60% of our students are English language learners. Providing the common language of music is enhancing our students’ educational experience. 

Currently, there is a major need for percussion instruments, brass instruments and woodwind mouthpieces in our music program with instrument costs ranging from $2,500 to $11,000. With this grant we would be able to supply a fully functional instrument to every student in our program (no more mouthpiece sharing) and also replace the instruments that are being held by zip ties and rubber bands. 

This massive grant would not only fulfill a physical need, but an experiential need. Through this very generous grant we would be developing a more equitable learning environment for all of our students. All donations will cover activities for the entire school year, including new music, instruments, experiences, travel and registration costs for band experiences. Please consider helping our students gain the experiences and instruments they so well deserve! 

Austin ISD Tax ID # 74-6000064

If your employer provides matching donations, checks should be payable to “Dobie Middle School Band” and mailed to Austin ISD, Office of Innovation & Development, 1111 W. 6th St., Suite D300, Austin, TX 78703. Attn. Juliana Castillo

Thank you for your support!

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