Blythewood High School is receiving national recognition through an Advocacy in Action award, presented by Music for All. The award is in the Innovative Fundraising category and was presented for the “Painted Fiddle Project.”
Each year, the Advocacy in Action awards are presented in seven categories: Community Involvement, Decision-Maker Engagement, Elementary Excellence, Innovative Fundraising, Marketing and Promotion, Parent/Booster Support and Student Recruitment, Engagement, and Retention. The awards recognize and celebrate the commitment of school administrators, community leaders, teachers, and parents who believe in music education and advocate to ensure that it is part of a comprehensive education for all children.
Julie Russell is the Orchestra Director at Blythewood High School. “I am thrilled that Blythewood High’s orchestra program is a 2024 recipient of a Music for All Advocacy in Action award. The students and I work hard to create unique fiddles that span the arts, culture, and vibe of our school and the community around us. I’m grateful for the support of my administration and district in this endeavor and hope that we can continue to portray music beyond these walls,” said Russell.
Proceeds from the Painted Fiddle Project support the school’s orchestra program. Each year, the project also helps fund a scholarship for a deserving local student to attend the University of South Carolina String Project Summer Camp.
Blythewood High will be featured on Music for All’s Advocacy in Action Archive, where their idea will be available for music educators to emulate around the country.
Blythewood High School is located at 10901 Wilson Boulevard in Blythewood, SC. It is the second-largest high school in Richland School District Two with approximately 2,100 students.
