Local educators came out in force to show support for the arts and how important it is in the classroom.
Laurie Melnik, Director of Theatre Education said," This really does impact America's schools and quality of education, and we need to have an active and large presence in our schools." A presence that will convey just how important art education is for students. Professors, school leaders, administrators and anyone with a passion for arts attended the forum on Thursday.
Melnik said, "We are hoping to accomplish opportunities for like minded individuals to have a productive conversation about what they hope to achieve in arts education in their own communities as well as those who we don't normally bring to the table." Sandra Ruppert, Director Arts and Education Partnership said, "You might just be surprised by our capacity to span boundaries, and see how far our dialogs can take us in the direction of arts learning without borders." Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts and Broadway theatre producer Rocco Landesman spoke more on art works and its impacts for schools.
Landesman watched a performance by the Chattanooga Choo Choo Kids that warmed his heart. Many Choo Choo Kids alumni have gone to prominent art colleges and professional theatre. Local schools across the Chattanooga area also submitted over 60 pieces of artwork for the event. Melnik said, "We wanted to exhibit student work. We want to find any opportunity to make sure that our student voice is present because they are definitely the reason why we do this."
For more information on the Arts Education Partnership log on to there website
http://www.aep-arts.org/.
