Why Art Matters

“Why do you want us to be involved in art?”- 5th grade student As a teacher I have always been a big proponent of the arts. Instead of bright academic posters about word usage, grammar, history facts or whatever I usually have some kind of artwork up in my classroom. I have invested in gallery wrapped prints and framed artwork to display in my rooms. When teaching history I often encourage my students to draw, recreate images and maps from their textbooks. In English I like for students to draw stories, write and read poetry or make comics, and encourage those who like to draw to have a sketchbook or notebook that is dedicated to drawing while in class. Usually at some point during the year a student, parent or member of school leadership will ask me why I have the kids drawing in my classroom when I am not an art teacher, why do I put so much value on drawing and poetry, skills that are not usually attributed to gaining admission into prestigious universities or earning. Today I want to share with you a talk I recently gave with my 5th grade class. So grab some tea or coffee and pretend for a few moments that you are my student.