“The arts are a universal language, one that bridges cultures and articulates the highest aspirations of humankind.”- Stephanie Perrin, Walnut Hill School, MA

Education Week, January 30, 2008

Narrowing the curriculum in elementary school deprives students of an important opportunity to develop broad vocabulary and background knowledge necessary for strong reading comprehension later on. That lack of opportunity results in several negative consequences as students move into upper elementary school and secondary grades.
Source: The Hidden Costs of Narrowing the Curriculum, The Center for Comprehensive School Reform and Improvement

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Updated: 6/30/08

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Home > Arts Education Month> letter to the editor

Tips on How to Write and Submit a Letter to the Editor

Letters to the editor are great ways for advocates to connect their mission to the news of the day. A letter can confirm or refute the content of news coverage, but should add something new to the discussion to warrant placement. They can be sent in response to a news article, editorial, or another letter to the editor and should steer clear of focusing on any particular person.

A letter to the editor

• Should be 150-250 words or fewer, unless otherwise indicated by a particular publication
• Reflects the message frame
• Is usually submitted via email or by fax to be published in a timely fashion
• Must include the writer’s full name, address and daytime phone number for verification purposes

Making the Case for the Arts in Our Schools (Sample only – do not copy!)

To the Editor:

It was disturbing to learn of the lack of support the arts are receiving from our state representatives ("Policymakers hail 'STEM' disciplines, leave creativity behind," January 25, 2008). The arts are an essential component to quality education. This finding exemplifies how undervalued the arts have become as new studies show how necessary they are.

My sixth grader was struggling with math and science for years, failing courses simply because he could not relate to the content. Introducing band class to him this year has turned everything around. Being offered a creative outlet in school helped him in all of his course work. I fear that the arts will be overlooked as technology and engineering are highlighted as keys to boosting innovation in the world.

Making time for the arts is essential to a child's growth. The arts might inspire innovation for STEM careers, but we still need education to hold on to creativity.

Parent Doe
1012 Any-town Street
New York, NY
(888) 888-888

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