(May 4, 2004) — “Clark is a specialized school, we have a focus,” said Assistant Principal Joan Shoff referring to the lack of music classes at Clark. According to Shoff, an 80-member taskforce, consisting of members of the community, students and teachers, made the decision before the school opened to place Clark’s emphasis on science and technology. “It was to prevent overcrowding and competition with other schools,” added Shoff. “I would’ve chosen to take music classes if they were offered at Clark,” said sophomore Tigran Gabrielyan, who used to play the flute before high school. “That would be another thing added to my future college application,” Gabrielyan added. The absence of music classes at Clark has led to interests, or better known as clubs, which have gradually been disappearing. A few years ago, there were several music clubs, like the Vocals, Instrumental and Guitar clubs. Now, we just have the Music Club, where, according to English teacher and advisor Carol Pettegrew, it’s more of an appreciation for music. “Students bring in music videos and instruments to learn and improve,” Pettegrew explained. Because we don’t have performing arts in this school, we fall short on a few things concerning music. There are, of course, ways to join the orchestra at Hoover High School. But it comes as an inconvenience in transportation on Monday evenings when there is a pile of homework waiting at home. “It is a disadvantage for the students whose main interest is music and they are welcome to pursue it at their residential school,” commented Shoff. Art classes, like design and photo, are offered at Clark; but music is also considered an art. Music is a form of expression, a way to be creative with an instrument that’s in your own hands. “Music is also the universal language,” commented Pettegrew. It helps students relate and relax through music. Pettegrew, like many teachers at Clark, uses music in her classes to help her students relate to the things they’re learning about. “I’m using the music of the 60’s right now to help the students understand the book that we’re reading,” added Pettegrew. Music is everywhere; it’s in the streets while a car revs or at the park where birds sings. Once a student graduates to face the real world, effects of not participating in music will become evident.