Arts and Education Initiative › The Arts and Education: A Partnership for 21st-Century Learning

The Arts and Education Initiative of EPLC Supporting the Arts in the Schools and Communities of Pennsylvania

The following scenario is an impressionistic picture of the arts and education, and it may be thought of as a play or a dance that helps us move from what currently is to what could be.  The contents are neither a literal description of our history, nor an exact depiction of current reality in Pennsylvania.  But, if we correctly capture our current challenges and open possibilities around our desired state, the scenario could help us design public policies to achieve that desired state.  Please take 10-20 minutes to read and react to this scenario.  At the end of each section, indicate the degree to which you agree with the associated statement, then be sure to share your thoughts about the section.  We will use your comments and those of others as we develop specific recommendations to be included in the February 2012 policy report.  So, suspend belief for the moment and sit in on the following hypothetical discussion−and, most importantly, participate in the conversation.

Part 1: A Gathering of Concerned Citizens, Sometime in the Present

Supporting the Arts in the Schools and Communities of Pennsylvania Taylor Atlee welcomed everyone.  A longtime champion of the arts, Atlee had volunteered to facilitate the discussion.  Joining her was a roomful of concerned citizens, invited to contribute their thoughts … Continue reading »

Part 2: Strengths and Weaknesses in PA Arts and Education

Supporting the Arts in the Schools and Communities of Pennsylvania “This list is sobering,” conceded Atlee.  “Clearly, we need a comprehensive approach to promoting the arts and arts education in these difficult times.” Turning to the students in the group, … Continue reading »

Part 3: How to Make Changes in our Schools

Supporting the Arts in the Schools and Communities of Pennsylvania “I employ a number of first generation Americans, immigrants who have come to this country seeking a better future for their children,” offered Henry Dickenson, a parent and local business … Continue reading »

Part 4: How the Arts Can Contribute

Supporting the Arts in the Schools and Communities of Pennsylvania Atlee then turned to the artists and arts advocates in the room. “As you listened to what our students, parents, and school administrators articulated as priorities,” she asked, “how can the … Continue reading »

Part 5: Developing an Agenda, Sometime in the Future

Supporting the Arts in the Schools and Communities of Pennsylvania When they met in the fall, group members adopted the following six-point, change agenda: I. Provide opportunities for all learners based on 21st-century needs. Learners of all ages need to … Continue reading »

Share: