Why are there "Art Parents" at Andrus?

David J. Skorton, president, Cornell University, gave a good answer to that question in an article he wrote titled The Arts Are Essential.

In that article, he states, "If science and technology help us to answer questions of "what" and "how," the arts and humanities give us ways to confront the intangible, to contemplate the "why," to imagine, to create."

Unfortunately, with budget cuts, increased focus on core curriculum, and standardized tests, there are few opportunities left for traditional classroom teachers to incorporate art education.  Luckily, at Andrus Elementary, the value of the arts is embraced and parents are allowed to supplement the required curriculum.




Another excellent description of why concerned parents are joining forces to help with art lessons comes from a speech given by author and creativity expert, Ken Robinson. Please take 20 minutes to view his talk from a TED conference in 2006.  He emphasizes the idea that all children are born with exceptional creativity, but that the current education system stifles that.