In the wake of a budget shakeup that left Morristown Central School District only capable of fielding a part-time band director, the future of the program has been put in question.

Despite assurances by Superintendent David Glover there will be a program, no one is quite sure what the band will look like as this summer sees the departure of long time band director, Jill Roberts.

“We plan on hiring a music instructor, at least as a part-time position,” said Mr. Glover. But the position, pending board approval, has yet to be posted.

As part of a possible solution to the problem discussions are being had, says Mr. Glover, about sharing a band director with another school district. Morristown already shares a physical education and health teacher with Parishville-Hopkinton Central School in a deal that “works out pretty well for both districts,” according to Mr. Glover.

Besides sharing a band director, conversations have been held that could result in maintaining the part-time position or bringing the entire school’s music program under the responsibility of one, full-time, faculty.

The decision will be made by the board in August, though Mr. Glover expects to gather an applicants pool prior to that deadline.

Mrs. Roberts will be taking over a full time band directing position at Madrid-Waddington Central School beginning in the fall. As outgoing band director, Mrs. Roberts said she has enjoyed her time in Morristown watching the kids grow as musicians. She encouraged people to come out to the Potsdam festival on July 14 to see the Morristown Marching Band on parade.

She did not comment on the future of Morristown’s band program.

“The kids are working very hard this year and are trying to make it the best yet,” said Mrs. Roberts in an email.

“Mrs. Roberts has done great work,” said Mr. Glover, adding, “We want someone to continue it.”

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