Arts education has taken a backseat in New York City public schools for the past few years. With emphasis placed squarely on improving reading and math test scores, the arts are too often considered "extras." According to the non-profit Center for Arts Education, the city's public schools are not even meeting state requirements that mandate a certain percentage of instructional hours dedicated to the arts - as much as 20% of time in lower elementary grades and a paltry one semester for the entire four years of high school.
CAE has been lobbying for dedicated arts funding for the schools and now it wants to enlist parent advocates. As part of a "Parent Fellows" program, 8-10 parent leaders citywide will be trained in arts education advocacy tactics. Tasks will include visiting schools and reaching out to parents to increase awareness of the benefits of arts education. Parent Fellows will be paid a monthly stipend, as yet to be determined, and will be trained in leadership skills.
Interested parents should contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , director of public engagement, or call 212-971-3300, extension 324.
This initiative is unrelated to the proposed amendment to the State Assembly bill on mayoral control, anticipated to be approved today, which would establish a parent council on the arts in New York City. Streets said CAE "hopes to be a resource for that group if it comes to fruition."
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