At a time of escalating economic contraction -- and when the City Council, which not so long ago fought potential education budget cuts to the penny, now proposes $ 75 million in DOE trims-- parents and educators understandably wonder what will become of non-academic but vital arts education in the city's schools.

The DOE's 2007 Arts in Schools reportdocumented shortfalls even in comparatively 'flush' times: Nearly a third of schools lacked certified art teachers (compared with 20% in 2006); spending for supplies and equipment was reduced by nearly $7 million; and more than 90% of grade-schoolers (and more than 50% of middle-schoolers) didn't get the arts education that's explicitly mandated by state law.

Tomorrow evening, the Center for Arts Educationinvites concerned city parents to learn more about arts education funding in the city's schools; particulars are here.