These quotes influence and inspire our dialog:
Quotes from President Obama and Secretary Duncan
This page of quotes from President Obama and Secretary Duncan might help to illuminate the value of the arts.
Superintendent Randy Dorn’s Letter, March 2009
“The Arts – dance, music, theatre and visual arts – are basic and core subject areas, and are essential to the well-rounded education of the whole child.”
Secretary Arne Duncan’s Letter to School District Leaders
“The arts can help students become tenacious, team-oriented problem solvers who are able to think creatively. These qualities can be especially important in improving learning among students from economically disadvantaged circumstances”
Jeff Newport
“Parents are increasingly able to articulate the benefits of the arts for their children. They see ways that the arts enhance their learning of academic subjects. They see the development of skills such as persistence, preparation and presentation. And, importantly, they see them developing a love of the arts!” Jeff Newport, Rosa Parks Lake Washington
Leita Earl
“The arts can open pathways of learning and encourage confidence in children. One of our fourth grade students has been visibly touched by the arts. She started the year hesitant to make new friends – uncomfortable to share orally with her class. Through her exposure to the arts, she smiles during dance activities and is
Mike Sellers
“Every time I observe an integrated arts lesson in a classroom, I find our highest levels of student engagement. Whether it is readers’ theater or a visual art component to math, reading, or social studies, many of our students who struggle with behavior or engagement issues rise to the top and then this carries over
George Wood
"We agree that math and reading skills are important for citizens. So is the study of history, the ability to create a reasoned argument, the arts, research skills, the list goes on. An education system, a system of public schools, must not narrow itself to the lowest common denominator of improving test scores in the
First Lady Michelle Obama
"Learning through the arts reinforces critical academic skills in reading, language arts and math and provides students with the skills to creatively solve problems." First Lady Michelle Obama
Margaret Mead
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead
Randy Dorn
"The Arts – dance, music, theatre and visual arts – are basic and core subject areas and are essential to the well-rounded education of the whole child." Randy Dorn, Superintendent of Public Instruction