Members of the Orange Rotary presented Orange Unified School District with two $1,000 checks to support high school music education. The funds will directly benefit the Orange High School band program and the newly established handbell program at El Modena High School.

"I know firsthand how expensive it is to purchase manuscripts for bands and choirs, and how much it means to students to have the opportunity to perform great music," said Moira Singer, Rotary member and El Modena alumna. "As someone who grew up in this community, giving back to our local high schools means everything to me."

Superintendent Dr. Rachel Monárrez accepted the donation on behalf of the district, extending her sincere gratitude to the Orange Rotary for its unwavering support and ongoing partnership.

For educators on the front line, community contributions like this create immediate, tangible opportunities for students:

• Orange High School Band Program
  "A huge thank you to the Orange Rotary Club for their generous donation to our Band and Orchestra program," said Alexander Gellatly, Band Director at Orange High School. "This gift directly supports our students by helping us repair and maintain school-owned instruments, purchase essential sheet music and equipment, and ensure every student can participate regardless of financial circumstances. Donations like this go a long way in a music classroom, and we are deeply grateful to Rotary for investing in our program's growth."
   
• El Modena High School Handbell Program
  "We are incredibly grateful for the Orange Rotary Club’s generous support," said Tracy Solis, Vocal Music Educator at El Modena High School. "This gift helps bring our new handbell club to life, offering students a unique avenue to collaborate while developing musicianship, teamwork, and confidence. We appreciate Rotary's investment in our students' creative futures."

To learn more about the Orange Rotary Club and its local community initiatives, visit orangerotary.com.