Sto-Rox students benefit from major instrument donation

According to the Tribune-Review, Sto-Rox School District has received nearly $40,000 in musical instruments and accessories through the Morgan Wallen Foundation’s 2026 Tour Give Back Program, creating new opportunities for student musicians across the district.

The donation includes saxophones, euphoniums, trombones, clarinets, flutes and 10 classical guitars. District leaders said the instruments will expand access to music education and help ensure students can participate regardless of their family’s ability to purchase or rent instruments.

Superintendent Sonya Coleman said the gift will have a lasting impact on students by enhancing learning opportunities and supporting artistic growth. Music educators Suellen Engelhard and Jessica Bromley noted that most Sto-Rox music students rely on school-owned instruments, making the donation especially meaningful. The new equipment will replace aging instruments, increase availability for students and allow more young musicians to participate in band programs and special performance opportunities.

The instruments were awarded through a competitive application process conducted in partnership with the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation. District officials say the donation comes as participation in Sto-Rox’s music programs continues to rebound and grow following pandemic-related enrollment declines.