Ronnie Said:

Our middle school only has 6 brass instruments for 30 kids!?

We Answered:

This is what you really need....Instruments that work and QUICK.

I suggest asking other schools to borrow their equipment at least for the year. This way, you have something NOW. Go to other middle schools, high schools, colleges and maybe some other groups like orchestras, community bands or drum corps and ask to borrow. Explain your situation to them. If you borrow, MAKE SURE IT GOES BACK TO THEM IN IMMACULATE CONDITION. Especially with 6th graders, you're going to have to keep an eye on them so they don't so much asscratch the instrument.

From there you can start planning on longer range goals like fundraisers or searching for grants. Step one is to get the kids playing. Often times, you need to prove that the program is a valuable asset to the school/community and if you have no instruments to prove it's worth, no one will "give you money" (especially in this economy).

There are a lot of band related groups in CA. Just start looking. Maybe even post on craigslist as well? Just start asking. The worst thing that will happen is they say "no". I often borrow instruments from other high school bands and they in turn borrow some of our equipment (as long as we aren't using it that is).

If all else fails, I guess you could ask Oprah for help.....it's worth a shot....

Raymond Said:

How can my middle class family afford to send me to a private school?

We Answered:

Your parents should go to the school and find out what can be done. I'm sure you're not the only person who has been through this, and they may be more willing to help than you think. Good luck!

Samantha Said:

Transferring Financial Aid in the Middle of a School Year?

We Answered:

Add your new school to your fafsa. You can do this by going to http://fafsa.ed.gov and click "Add or Delete a School Code". This will add your new school to your application and the school will send you info they need to get you started for Spring 09.

Victoria Said:

can i apply for a student loan or grants or any other type of financial in the middle of a "school year"?

We Answered:

yep you can apply anytime for them, my school's terms are evry 6 week and there are always new people at random times of the year and they always get financial aid