CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — A new event took center stage in Champaign on Sunday. The Champaign Urbana Schools Foundation (CUSF) showcased the musical talents of students and staff at their “We are the Schools Music Fest.”

Six hours, 12 band performances, and one goal — to celebrate public schools. The groups all had either a student, teacher or staff member as part of their performance. 

CUSF Assistant Director Erin Tarr said it gave people a chance to show off their talents outside of the classroom. 

“It really showcases the talent that we already have in our public schools,” Tarr said. “It shows the community that everybody gets to come around together to support our schools and our students and our teachers, and that’s really the entire mission of CU Schools Foundation, is to act as allies and ambassadors for our public schools.”

Money from ticket sales goes straight back to programming at Champaign and Urbana schools. Organizers said they are grateful for the audience that came out to cheer on the dozens of performers.