North Central music program gets $5,500 boost from the Ford Motor Co.

The music program at Spokane’s North Central High School has received a $5,500 grant from the Ford Motor Co. Fund as part of the Grammy in the Schools program.

The grant is part of the Signature Schools Enterprise Award, which recognizes quality music programs at economically disadvantaged schools.

“I believe North Central is deserving because they have such a strong and diversified music program: two bands, percussion ensemble, and guitar class,” said Kristy Khachigian, a spokesperson for the Ford Fund. “The school is in an area that has one of the largest percentages of welfare recipients and a large number of single mothers working multiple jobs. The students have very little means and put everything into the music program.”

North Central’s instrumental director, Collins Loupe, said the funds will be used in a way that would have the greatest impact on the largest number of students on a daily basis, such as purchasing new instruments.

“We are very grateful to the Grammy Foundation and the Ford Motor Company for their help in these financially challenging times. The students here at North Central are very appreciative when graciousness comes their way,” he said.

An award presentation will be held at 7 p.m. today at North Central, 1600 N. Howard St.

In addition, two panel discussions featuring music industry professionals will be held to benefit students. The panel will include Aaron Birdsall, a record producer, music composer and sound designer; Lynn Yew Evers, a pianist and composer; and David Sears, education director of the Grammy Museum Foundation.

The first career event will be held at 9:40 a.m. today at Shadle Park High School, 4327 N. Ash St., in Spokane. North Central will host the second panel at 11 a.m. Friday.

The Ford Fund has supported Grammy in the Schools for 11 years.

“Music education plays a critical role in the success of students throughout the U.S.,” said Pamela Alexander, director of community development for the Ford Fund. “Ford is honored to reward high-performing music programs in partnership with the Grammy in the Schools program.”