The Foundation for Edmonds School District has announced the resounding success of its Save the Arts Campaign, raising an impressive $302,000—with additional pledges still rolling in—to preserve critical arts and music education programs across the Edmonds School District for the 2025-26 school year.
Spurred by looming budget cuts that threatened arts education, for the last two years the campaign galvanized support from across the region, drawing donations from local families, businesses, major contributors, and a generous challenge match led by travel expert and longtime philanthropist Rick Steves.
“I’m thrilled by and thankful for the generosity of caring citizens in our community,” Steves said. “Together, we exceeded our goal to help fund music programs in our local public schools, and I’m proud to be a part of this initiative.”
As a result of the campaign’s success, eight vital music classes will continue to be offered next school year, including middle and high school jazz ensembles, orchestra, choir, and music technology courses. The funds will support 1.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) teaching positions, distributed among the following programs:
- Orchestra at Alderwood Middle School, benefiting over 80 seventh-grade string students
- Jazz Band at Meadowdale, Alderwood, and Brier Terrace Middle Schools
- Jazz Band 2 at Edmonds-Woodway and Mountlake Terrace High Schools
- Choir at Brier Terrace Middle School
- Music Technology at Meadowdale High School
“The response from our community has been nothing short of extraordinary,” said Tam Osborne, Manager of Visual & Performing Arts for the Edmonds School District. “When we faced the difficult reality of budget constraints impacting some of our music programs, our families, local businesses, and community members stepped forward with remarkable support. Their commitment to our students’ musical education has made all the difference.”
Osborne emphasized the broader value of music in education: “These programs don’t just teach students to play instruments or sing – they develop critical thinking, teamwork, discipline, and self-expression.”
The campaign’s success, Foundation leaders say, underscores the collective power of community action.
“Our local community sent a clear message: music matters,” said Deborah Brandi, Executive Director of the Foundation. “Thanks to this shared commitment, students across the district will continue to learn, create, and thrive in programs that nurture expression, connection, and confidence. We are incredibly grateful to everyone involved.”
The Edmonds School District, the largest in Snohomish County, serves more than 20,000 students across 35 schools, with nearly one-third eligible for free or reduced lunch programs. The Foundation for Edmonds School District, now in its 41st year, continues to work in close partnership with the district to provide vital resources that foster equity and academic excellence.
For more information on the Save the Arts Campaign or to contribute to future efforts, visit www.foundationesd.org.
Author: Gerti Katro
