Many of us in the arts are concerned and confounded by the state of the arts in our public schools. While some districts have made positive strides, others are stuck in a downward spiral driven by federal testing requirements and constricting resource streams. But, of course, being concerned and confounded has little positive impact on the situation. Only action makes things change.
Since all politics is local — especially in public schools, governed by their districts — the best approach is the personal and face-to-face. And if you don’t know where or how to begin, this on-line resource offers some tips and techniques, and some talking points.
Give it a read. Give the issue your voice.
This publication isn’t new – still relevant though.
http://www.nasaa-arts.org/publications/critical-evidence.pdf
(PDF document)
It tries to answer the question why it is important to keep the arts strong in education.
I hadn’t seen this article before, but it is so true! After I started a Youth Orchestra, (up and running three years now!) I started a blog entitled heartsinthearts.com, about improving the state of the Arts in the public schools from the perspective of grass-roots organizing, for people who would like to have his or her voice heard, from the viewpoint of the everyday — parents, students, administrators, teachers, community school supporters. I am ‘putting my mouth where the ears are’. Thank you very much, I hope you will visit it and add your view(s) often.