It's National Arts in Education Week . . .

The arts serve as a critical component to a complete education and are proven to increase student academic achievement. Young people who consistently participate in comprehensive, sequential, and rigorous arts programs are:

* 4 times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement
* 3 times more likely to be elected to class office within their schools
* 4 times more likely to participate in a math and science fair
* 3 times more likely to win an award for school attendance
* 4 times more likely to win an award for writing an essay or poem*
*source

For more information visit: National Arts In Education Week

And Remember The Fun Doesn't End on September 18th!

October is National Arts and Humanities Month

In conjunction with the 50th Anniversary, Americans for the Arts asks why the arts matter to you with the announcement of the Why Arts Matter Video Contest. Celebrate the arts in America by creating a video that tells "Why Arts Matter" to you.

The winning video will be shown on the MTV 44 1/2 screen in Times Square, letting you share your story with thousands of people.

Key Dates for the Contest

• April 1 - September 24: Submit your video
• September 26 - October 8: Voting period (votes are calculated based on number of times video is viewed)
• October 12: Announcement of winners to kick off National Arts & Humanities Month

For more information visit: Americans for the Arts

Check your calendars for October events!

In towns and communities across America, arts organizations are planning and developing events, celebrations and innovative programming to highlight National Arts and Humanities Month. Throughout the month of October, special events will capture the spirit that the arts and humanities bring to everyday life. In particular, cultural organizations are being asked to do the following:

Plan to participate in the month-long celebration with an already-scheduled activity or a new event, large or small, that will be free and open to the public. Events could include a free performance, lecture or reading; a behind-the-scenes tour, a workshop, a concert or a festival. An open house is a great way to invite the community to join with your organization in celebrating the month. For more ideas, see 101 Things You Can Do to Celebrate National Arts and Humanities Month.