Art, music, PE and drama. Are they essential?

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Art, music, P.E., drama…do we need performing arts and physical education in our schools?

Absolutely.

There are some students who only come to school because they look forward to their art class.  The same is true within the other disciplines.  So, then why are these the first things to go when budgets are cut?  What about foreign language in elementary schools?

We must consider alternative means for funding these critical components of our school offerings.  Foundations can be set up within a community.  In one local area, the foundation funds the orchestra program.  We must partner with businesses, and those corporations must contribute to our educational programs.

If we all “believe in better,” we need to serve the whole child, and that includes offering classes in reading, math, science, history, physical education, foreign language, vocational areas, and the arts.

It all comes down to people and programs.  When will we recognize that our future depends on how well prepared our children are?

Here are some alternative funding ideas:

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation

Pepsi Refresh Project (check link)

National School Foundation: Listing by State

Foundation Center (Info for starting your own foundation)

Wallace Foundation Arts Education

Marietta City Schools Foundation

Carrollton City Schools Education Foundation

Our contributor, Diane Sandifer

From local to state and national roles in public service, Diane Sandifer served on the Harris County Schools GA Board of Education from 1998-2008. Additionally, Diane was elected as president of the Georgia School Boards Association in 2006 and was a member of the National School Boards Association Board of Directors in 2007 and 2008. Diane advocates 21st century governance from the board room to the classroom through her passion for integration of technology as well as effective strategic planning. Diane represents school board members in statewide commissions and projects and has played an integral role in educational research through groups like the Wallace Foundation. Diane lives in Pine Mountain, Georgia and is currently the account executive for eBOARDsolutions.