March is Youth Art Month, an initiative designed to celebrate art education in schools!

Congratulations to the following students for making it to WI Youth Art Month STATE! Olivia Butak, Kaylee Cooper, Kayla Earp, Audrianna Ellis, Nedia Farnlof, Madison McGivern, Camryn Reiter, Noelle Simetkosky and Abigale Weiss.

Their artwork (scroll down to see some of the pieces) is currently on display at the regional exhibition and will be on display in Madison from March 4-31. Good luck to each of them as their artwork will be eligible for additional awards at state.

Art classes offer a wide range of opportunities for students to express themselves creatively while also developing critical thinking skills, deepening their empathy, and developing a stronger overall understanding of the world around them. Unfortunately, in an era of increasing school budget cuts, art programs are often among the first to be slashed, which results in loss of important opportunities for students.

Becoming an alumni donor or supporter is a great way to protect educational programming you care about, including the arts. Here are just a few reasons why art has such an important place in schools.

• Self-expression and creativity: Young students often have a lot of energy and imagination, and art classes provide a creative outlet for them to express themselves in a positive way. Whether it's painting, drawing, sculpting, or even digital art, students can use art classes to experiment and explore their interests. Art classes encourage self-expression and individuality, which can help students develop a strong sense of identity and self-esteem.

• Critical thinking: When students are creating art, they are constantly making decisions and problem-solving. They must decide on color choices, composition, and other design elements. Art classes also help students develop their observational skills, which are critical for any field of study. In an art class, students learn to see the world in a different way and develop a greater appreciation for beauty and aesthetics.

• Improved social skills: Group projects and critiques allow students to work together and communicate their ideas effectively. Through these activities, students learn how to give and receive feedback, collaborate with others, and build relationships with their peers. Art classes can also foster a sense of community and belonging, as students work together to create a shared artistic vision.

Youth Art Month is a time to celebrate the importance of art and the creativity of children in schools. We hope you will join us at Mighty Cardinals Nation to celebrate the importance of art in schools and to work toward safeguarding students’ access to art education. 

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