Schools get help with starting bands

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) - Soon, more Maine kids will rock.

The Maine Department of Education says 10 school districts will receive the instruments and resources they need to run modern band programs.

The project, called Maine Kids Rock!, was in part developed by a national nonprofit that aims to make sure public school children can unlock their inner music makers.

The schools include Waterville Senior High School, East End Community School in Portland and Penobscot Valley High School.

Schools were chosen based on need, sustainability and the quality of proposed programming.

At least half of students at eligible school districts must qualify for free or reduced lunch.