“Arts education is central for the well-being of our country, an essential element of enlightened education and for the whole ecology of arts and culture in Canada.” International Center of Art for Social Change, BC
“As a music educator I see the impact of arts education every day in my classroom. It is a means for expression and healing for our students, and especially in these times it is absolutely crucial for our kids to have the arts as an outlet as they return to the physical and/or virtual classroom.” Ashley Brockway, Ecole McTavish High School, Fort McMurray, AB
“I am a dance educator, pursuing opportunities for children to engage in the arts to increase physical and mental health, to develop creativity necessary for the workplace and to increase cultural understanding.” Tammy Sullivan Kostersky, RAD, ADAPT, Yorkton SK
“Arts Education teaches students to be creative and enhances learning in Math and Language. Arts Education teaches students to dare to dream and to think in other ways, hence allowing them to envision a better world for tomorrow. Arts Education teaches students to be human and how to show their feelings.” Donna Tugby, Pembina Trails School Division, Winnipeg MB
“Arts education is inclusive education for all. In this world of digital learning and re-shaping public education, arts education is needed now more than ever to make sure that all learners have equitable access to curriculum.” Cathy Clarke, Richmond Hill, ON
“Curiosity and free thinking are the building blocks of a meaningful life and a will to act and improve our world.” Théâtre du Renard, Montreal QC
“As an artist and art educator, I see the benefits and impact of the Practical Arts at the Middle School Level first hand. Throughout the pandemic, they have also played a crucial role in the mental and emotional well being of our students while at home.” Jennifer Aikman-Smith, Anglophone East School District, Moncton NB
“Not only are arts programs essential to a full education but their methodologies can be used to help people deal personally and as a group with a pandemic.” Labrador Creative Arts Festival, Happy Valley, NF
“All that I am and do is a result of my education in the arts and my instruction as an arts educator. You cannot separate out what qualities are enhanced by the arts for all that we do is the arts.” Michelle Greenwell, Mabou, Dance Nova Scotia
“We need to offer arts education to continue to develop more of the AMAZING artists that Canada has to offer.” Darcy Campbell, Confederation Centre for the Arts, Charlottetown
“The Arts are critical for our society and our ability to think outside the box, an essential trait to manage in a rapidly changing world.” Whitehorse YK
