At Woodrow Wilson Elementary, students are showing up for music in a big way. Although the school ranks fifth in enrollment among nine elementary schools in the district, it has the highest participation in music programs—70 kids in beginning orchestra, band, and chorus. Students are eager to take part, with some even starting strings as early as kindergarten. That level of enthusiasm speaks volumes about the culture being built—one where music is exciting, accessible, and deeply valued.

But that enthusiasm is outpacing the school’s resources.

Each year, students come into the program with specific interests and big aspirations. This year, two elementary students had their hearts set on playing percussion. But because there were no percussion kits at the elementary level, they had to play whatever was available at the time. While they embraced the opportunity, they still talk about wishing they could have played the instruments that inspired them.

Additional flutes, clarinets, and trombones are needed to enable more students to participate. Since the majority of the school is economically disadvantaged (74%), students typically are unable to provide their own instruments.

The kids do their best with what they have: a “red tagged” baritone that is just playable enough, but slated for retirement; a tuba borrowed from the middle school that may have to go back at any time; small cellos that are literally being outgrown by the children who play them.

Despite these challenges, students continue to show up, sign up, and stay engaged. They are choosing music in remarkable numbers—and with the right instruments in their hands, that momentum can turn into something even more powerful. With your support, the children at Wilson Elementary will have the equipment they need to fully participate. New, high-quality instruments will ensure that when a student raises their hand to join band, orchestra, or chorus, they won’t have to wait, compromise, or miss out. They’ll be able to play, learn, and grow—exactly as they hoped when they first chose music.

DONATE TODAY!

Your donation goes to Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, allowing the foundation to work with the school’s music teacher to purchase the school’s needed instruments. Instruments are then delivered directly to the school.

Every contribution helps! Your generous support will:

*Equip students with high-quality instruments

*Expand access to music education and grow participation

*Inspire creativity, confidence, and success in school and life

How your donation works:

Your cash donation goes directly to Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation to help purchase the instruments each school needs at deeply discounted rates (typically one-third of retail price). Instruments are delivered directly to the school; no cash is given to schools. A 5% service fee is retained by JustGiving, and the Foundation retains 10% to cover administrative costs, including school vetting and grant management.

How we select schools:

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation identifies schools through a combination of outreach and research, focusing on those that meet specific grant eligibility requirements. Once a school is determined to be eligible, the music teacher is invited to complete a detailed grant application and participate in an in-person or virtual site visit. This process helps the Foundation understand the school’s unique needs and ensures that any donation will result in a sustainable, long-term impact on students’ access to music education.

More ways to help:

To spread the word on social media or link to this page in your own fundraising efforts, use the links below! And to learn more about Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation's Adopt A School campaign, visit mhopus.org/adopt-a-school or contact us at info@mhopus.org or 818-762-4328.