10:30 - 11:45 a.m., Thursday, April 6, 2017
PSU 313
Children and the arts: Should all be taught to sing, to dance, to paint?
Arts programs are often the first on the chopping block when school budgets are in a pinch. Yet research demonstrates that arts education improves overall learning for children of all ages. Children learn creativity, problem solving, perseverance, focus, non-verbal communication, collaboration and self-confidence through the arts. More affluent school districts often include classes in art, music and theatre in their curricula. Arts classes should not be disposable extras. In view of increasing budget limitations in American schools, how may all children be granted the right to participate in arts education?
Presenters

Andie Bottrell
Actor, writer, artist

Joan Della Valle
Educator and author

Russell Fail
Professor of Humanities
Kaplan University

Godfrey Simmons, Jr.
Artistic Director
Civic Ensemble