Art Education

With school budgets looming on the horizon, I thought that I'd take a moment to sing the praises of art education in the public schools. Last week, the Warwick Valley Central School District held their annual art exhibition. The exhibition is usually devoted to the elementary school level. This year it showcased work from grades K-12.

  

As always, the work that is produced by these children is phenomenal. I look at it and wonder how any one can even think of cutting art education from the schools. Warwick has already eliminated art enrichment classes from the curiculum. However, there was a possibility earlier this year, that art would be cut entirely from the program, along with Music. But thank goodness that it never happened. Looking at art work by young students should remind us all why art education is important. It's not just about drawing and painting. Art teaches us about history and different cultures. Art teaches us about literature. Art teaches us math. Looking at the student's artwork reminds me why I fight for art education and why you should too.