Editor:
My name is Bethany Harper. I’m the mother of a freshman and sophomore. This is our first year at Meadowdale HS (MHS). MHS gives children the opportunity to learn and build skills through their arts programs. It would be a great disservice to the present students as well as future classes to cut these programs. The fine arts like theater, band, and choir are integral to developing well-rounded students into high-achieving adults.
On a personal note, Play Production (PP) has been so important to my students this year. My freshman struggles with depression and identity. PP gives him a reason to keep living. The friendships he’s building have helped him find community at MHS. He’s learning leadership skills, team building, public speaking, and increasing his confidence. My daughter is introverted, but that hasn’t stopped her from investing in PP. It has challenged her and is also building leadership and public speaking skills. The tools they derive from the theater program will be directly applicable to college classes, work experience, and many other areas of life beyond high school.
Bethany Harper
Lynnwood
As a retired educator, I totally agree. Think of all the jobs that are available in the arts, and the passion for the arts that kids learn in school. Schools aren’t there to just develop ONE type of intelligence. The love of learning and discovery is in itself worth teaching to ALL types of intelligence.
Again we see the absence of thought in education. The District proposing cuts to programs that allow the youngsters to develop their creative skills. Some achieve new dimensions when new skills are found. Come on let’s care for our kids.
You work for us!
I couldn’t agree more. I participated in both the MHS music and drama departments in the 80’s. I was in chorus, choir, the Impressions Jazz Choir and Play Production during high school. In order to be in the Jazz group, you had to maintain a certain grade point average so you had to be a well rounded student. I liked school in general however my experience wouldn’t have been nearly as enjoyable without the arts. I understand the importance of STEM learning but kids need an outlet for their artistic growth as well. To eliminate these departments is just something I cannot support.