Teachers across
The problem with subjects that fall into the fine arts category is they are hard to test, therefore hard to judge from an outsider’s (someone other than the immediate class) perspective. Also tying in with the No Child Left Behind Act, passed in 2001 by President Bush, they cannot create a standardized test for most fine art subjects.
"I think it [the fine arts] is being cut because of a lack of vision and appreciation by education administrators who refuse to budget for it. However, my principal told me that our Fine Arts department is the heart and soul of the school and will be supported as long as she is the principal." said Gayle Workman, District Arts Committee Member and Choir and Music Appreciation teacher from
Jenifer Andrus is a drama teacher at Lave Ridge Intermediate School, when asked what are the future benefits for students involved in fine arts, she answered with, "besides all of the many studies that show that students involved in the fine arts perform better in school, I really believe that the performing arts allow for a way for many students to find their niche and feel good about themselves. I have witnessed many students who have had trouble fitting in or finding success in school discover that drama is where they fit."
There are no fine art requirements for students at Lava Ridge Intermediate, but that doesn't make it less important. There are many opportunities for students to show off there talents. Andrus is also part of the Dramatic Arts Showcase for the intermediate and middle schools. This showcase will bring together students from the different schools and allow them to perform their readers' theater, poetry, humorous, and dramatic interpretations.
The more community involvement the better chances the fine art programs have at surviving in public schools. Donations equal survival for most districts.
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