Valedictorian Starts High School Choir: Philadelphia Student Continues Music Program In Low-Income Neighborhood Despite Budget Cuts

The valedictorian of a high school in one of the most distraught neighborhoods of Philadelphia did not let a lack of resources get in the way of continuing an art form he is passionate about.

Tyreik Donaldson, a senior at Strawberry Mansion High School, created a student choir after the school announced that it had to cut its music program due to a lack of funding, according to ABC News.

Although Donaldson participated in the school's choir for three years, the announcement that the music teacher and choir instructor position was cut came in the beginning of his senior as he began preparing for college applications and graduation.

But he didn't let a lack of funding stop him from continuing a program that united students interested in singing and performing.

"I wanted to keep that tradition alive," said Donaldson in an interview with ABC News.

"The choir means a lot. I have built a whole lot of relationships, friendships with the people that are in the choir. It has brought us closer together."

While the choir does not have an instructor, Donaldson and other students use their musical talents to direct the group and continue rehearsals and shows. The cohort meets twice a week during school hours and perform songs that they are interested in, according to ABC News.

With graduation right around the corner and the college admission decisions looming, Donaldson will continue to support the group and is setting the framework for students to continue the choir once he departs.