Save the Arts in Upper Darby...WE NEED YOUR HELP!

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This post doesn't exactly have much to do with cakes but I feel compelled to educate my followers on an issue that is near and dear to my heart.

For the past four years, I've had the privilege to teach Reading and Mathematics Intervention in Upper Darby School District at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels. Recently, with state funding cuts and much of the district's funding being handed over to charter schools, Upper Darby School District is being forced to eliminate the arts in ten elementary schools and two middle schools. In 2012-2013 and beyond all Art, Music, Gym and Library classes will be omitted from the regular days schedule. Therefore, primary classroom teachers will be responsible for implementing those state standards within their classrooms.

I fear not only for my fellow educators, but also for the children who are being deprived of diverse learning. Without these creative outlets, student achievement and engagement will decrease, and students could potentially explore other activities including at-risk behavior.  Not only that, but teachers will experience increased pressure to incorporate all of these needs, that teacher burn-out is inevitable.

As a very creative and energetic child myself, art, music and gym were my favorite subjects in school. I was not the most confident student when it came to academics, for I struggled with comprehension, concentration and  general whole-group instruction. When I was able to express my understanding of content learning through integrating physical, artistic or musical talents into projects, that's where I felt I shined.

The arts promoted a creative outlet for me. I felt I had more confidence in those classes which lead to self discovery, an increase in problem solving skills and innovation.  Without the arts programs in my school growing up, I doubt I would have been able to develop the talents that lead me to where I am today.

So Help me Save the Arts in Upper Darby School District. Please Sign  and Share this Petition, The youth of America and our nation are at risk!