Good Press on Arts and Commerce

 I was shocked when I saw three recent articles in the Los Angeles Times that praised not only the value of, but also the requirement for, arts education. There is a very practical reason for this in Southern California. Los Angeles is still the center of the film and television industry, and business leaders know that arts education benefits our economy. In a Los Angeles Times article, Bill Humphrey, general manager for the company that runs Sunset Bronson Studios, said that schools and Hollywood should work together to serve the entertainment industry. They stepped up by donating lights and curtains to Le Conte Middle School, and sponsoring a mentoring program. Non-profits like Inner-City Arts and CalArts Community Arts Partnership (CAP) also bring real world skills and inspiration to students who do not get their fair share of arts education. By fair share, we mean what state law requires
Another Los Angeles Times article stated that despite budget cuts and a focus on academics, the state mandates arts programs. State law requires a curriculum that includes music, art, theater, and dance. School districts, even here in Santa Clarita, do not want to skirt the law, they just need help fitting it into their overwhelmed budgets and schedules. For example, the Los Angeles Times points out that eight out of every 10 elementary schools in Los Angeles don’t have programs needed to meet the standards, but many of those that do tap the help of businesses, foundations, and parent groups.
That is why community organizations like The ARTree are vital to arts education. Arts education for kids is not just for now but also for the future. In a town that values innovation, creativity, and success, you might say that nothing inspires success like art.
Find out how you and your kids can get inspiration at www.theARTree.org.