Randall World Languages School grows interest in music program with MCEF grant

Students at the Randall World Languages School huddled in the front office meeting space anxiously awaiting to hear their name matched with a musical instrument of their choosing.

Randall, a Title I school with a diverse population where 98% represent people of color and close to 50 percent come from socio-economically disadvantaged households, was awarded a $5,000 grant from the Milpitas Community Education Foundation to purchase 30 musical instruments and songbooks to build their music program.

Since receiving the grant in 2021, Randall’s music program has blossomed to 42 students, with 14 in orchestra and 28 in band. Superintendent Cheryl Jordan shared, “I am thrilled to see how our Randall World Languages school provides our learners with Spanish, Mandarin and the language of music”

“As one of my students expressed, ‘my mom asked me if I have to pay for the instrument, because if it is expensive, I can't do it. We don't have the money to pay for instruments," said Randall co-Principal Claudia Cadenas, who had another student share, “this is the best instrument ever, I never thought I could use one."

Cadenas credited parent and school advocate Chin Song, with applying for the grant on behalf of Randall in 2021. “The grant was for instruments, and we decided to use the money in purchasing them because we knew that our students wanted to do band or strings but due to the cost of the rental they could not access this program,” Cadenas explained.

Interest quickly expanded amongst the Randall student body after others saw classmates with their instruments, inspiring more students to join the music program; however, more instruments are needed. 

“Music has been an integral part of my life, and while I had opportunity throughout my K-8 experience to learn how to play different instruments, I was no longer able to take lessons after junior high because the program was not offered in my high school, and was something my family couldn’t afford to pay for privately, which is why I am donating to the program and encouraging others to join me.”

To make a donation to the Randall World Languages School music program contact the Randall Office Team directly at (408) 635-2662.

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