art advocacy

Advocating for art education is probably something that all of us will have to encounter sooner or later considering the profession we're about to enter. It seems that with NCLB changing the way education is handled in the U.S., art education may fall by the wayside and lose even more funding and focus than it already has. I believe that advocating the arts through presenting knowledge and facts to parents and district board members could be a very effective way to get the message out.

When presenting the facts, it is important to let everyone know why art education is valuable to everyone and not just the few that will go on to get jobs in the art world. Here is some of the information that I believe is relevant to the cause. Research has shown that Arts education enhances student problem-solving and critical thinking skills, adding to overall academic achievement, school success, and preparation for the real world of work. Art is a way to preserve our culture and heritage. It helps students realize the different ways that people work and the diversity of ideas that can be used to creatively find solutions to problems. Art class may be the only time given to students to express themselves without be "disruptive" in class. One of the most important lessons learned in an art class is how to analyze and revise work in order to create a high quality work. This analysis and revision skill can be useful in all areas of life!

I think one way an advocate could present this information could be to send home information with students on along with information that is generally considered vital, things like report cards or permission slips, so that the information doesn't get discarded as easily. I think a great way could be to present student work and transform a generally boring place into a vibrant and productive space. I can't stop thinking about how boring most banks are and how different I felt when we were in Midwest Bank last week. People look at the art, so why not attach facts about art education with work in order to inform the public? I think that these are just a couple ways of getting the word out without stepping on any toes.