Reflecting on the Arts

Tonight I had the pleasure of watching my daughter participate in our district's celebration of art, music, and drama, MusArt. She was a second chair flutist, back up vocalist, and stage hand in a gym adorned with the artistic creations of her talented classmates. She made me proud of the way she committed to her roles. The event provides an excellent occasion to reflect on the many benefits of art, music, and drama in our schools. Here is an inadequate list of a few things the arts promote:

-discipline

-intellect

-creativity

-community

-mentoring relationships

-culture

-fun

As an educator and as a parent I'm thankful when I see these values instilled in kids, especially mine. We have plenty of reasons to support art, music, and drama programs, as well as the talented folks that lead them.

Honoring Art as MU's Program is Suspended

     The University of Missouri has suspended its art education program. With declining enrollment, Mizzou faced a tough decision.  The moment should make us question how we will fill art teaching positions in tomorrow's classrooms, as we honor those doing this important work today.

     In our building our art teacher receives compliments on a daily basis from visitors who are greeted by the work of her talented artists.  She brings out the best in the students who work every day under the mural she created of a Dostoevsky quote.

As an educator I admire teachers of the fine arts.  As a parent I appreciate them even more. Some of my proudest moments have been watching my children perform and create under the guidance of an art or music teacher.

    STEM education rightfully receives a great deal of attention, but we must be careful not to create false dichotomies. The examples of three astronauts serve as reminders: Chris Hadfield's musicianship, Alen Bean's art, and Sally Ride's poetic writing.  These talented scientists remind us of our deep need for the beauty of art. 

      I don't know that beauty alone will save the world, but I do know the world is a better place where talented art teachers are at work.
     Those teachers need a place to prepare.