Since the Joan Mantle Music Trust was established in 2008, every secondary school in the Rainbow board has benefited from it.

A second round of funding throughout the board will see Lo-Ellen Park, Lockerby Composite, Manitoulin Secondary and Barrydowne College receive new instruments in the 2012-13 school year, courtesy of the trust.

“There is an ongoing need to revitalize music programs in our schools so we certainly appreciate the continued support,” said Norm Blaseg, director of education.

“Our students will reap the rewards for years to come.”

So far, some $107,000 has been raised for the trust, named after the longtime educator who made an immense contribution to music education locally. She passed away on June 9, 2009, after a courageous battle with cancer.