ST. CROIX VALLEY — The St. Croix Valley Foundation has awarded $42,000 in music education grants to 21 K–12 public and private schools across the St. Croix Valley, supporting music programs that expand student access, foster creativity, and strengthen learning through the arts.

Funded projects this year range from hands-on drumming and culturally rooted music experiences, to professional musician residencies, instrument access initiatives, and student collaborations with composers and ensembles. Highlights include Dakota drumming and dance performances at Hudson Middle School, a saxophone quartet residency in Glenwood City, expanded percussion and drumming programs in Chisago Lakes, and new instruments and ensemble opportunities designed to remove financial barriers for students across the region.

“What impressed the committee most was the dedication behind these proposals,” said Kris Tjornehoj, retired Professor of Music from University of Wisconsin River Falls, and volunteer chair of the Foundation’s Music Education Grant review panel. “Teachers are finding creative ways to stretch limited resources, remove barriers for students, and build programs that inspire a lifelong love of music. These grants recognize that commitment and help ensure students don’t miss out.”

This year, the Foundation received 31 applications requesting more than $116,000, underscoring both the strong demand for funding and the importance of music education in schools throughout the region. 

St. Joseph Parish School in Prescott received a $2,500 grant for Building Strong Foundations: band equipment.

Music Education Grants are made possible through the Music Education Endowed Fund, established in 2002 by longtime music advocate Nyda Swanson, along with support from the St. Croix Valley Foundation and a generous anonymous donor. In 2025, grants were funded through a combination of the endowed fund, unrestricted Foundation resources, and anonymous community support.

 Since 2003, the St. Croix Valley Foundation has awarded 313 Music Education Grants totaling more than $742,000 to schools across the Foundation’s six-county region.

 These grants make a lasting difference in our schools and communities. Anyone can help sustain and grow music education across the St. Croix Valley by contributing to the Music Education Endowed Fund, ensuring future generations benefit from high-quality music experiences. Visit www.scvfoundation.org to donate.

Submitted by St. Croix Valley Foundation