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Arts Education – Reasons to Believe

• "My husband and I believe strongly that arts education is essential for building innovative thinkers who will be our nation’s leaders for tomorrow." Michelle Obama
• "The future belongs to young people with an education and the imagination to create." President Barack Obama
• Arts education strengthens problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Study of the arts stimulates the imagination and critical thinking. 
• Study of the arts helps students develop a sense of craftsmanship and goal-setting. 
• The arts teach children that problems can have more than one solution.
• The arts help children learn to say what cannot be said solely with words.
• 72% of business leaders say that creativity is of high importance when hiring.
• Children who study the arts are 4 times more likely to be recognized for academic. achievement.
• Children who study the arts are 3 times more likely to be elected to class office in their schools.
• Children who study the arts are 3 times more likely to win an award for school attendance.

Logos
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Promotional Descriptions
30 Words
MINDS WIDE OPEN: Virginia Celebrates Children and the Arts 2012 is a statewide collaboration of artists, arts organizations, and other institutions to present programs focusing on Children and the Arts.
 
60 Words
MINDS WIDE OPEN: Virginia Celebrates Children and the Arts is a statewide collaboration. Between March and June of 2012, thousands of special events will occur to honor contributions of children, artists and artwork featuring children. Any individual or group can participate by presenting at least one public program focus on Children and the Arts.
 
90 Words
MINDS WIDE OPEN: Virginia Celebrates Children and the Arts is a statewide collaboration of artists, arts organizations, and other institutions to present thousands of performances, exhibitions, festivals, film screenings, and readings between March and June of 2012. These programs will occur to honor contributions of children, artists and artwork featuring children. Any individual or group can participate by presenting at least one public program—including plays, choreography, compositions, and exhibitions of paintings, photography or films that focus on Children and the Arts.

Contact
Katie Shubert
Statewide Coordinator
MINDS WIDE OPEN: Virginia Celebrates Children and the Arts
ArtsVA2012@gmail.com 
757-627-9545 ext. 3323 phone
757-622-0058 fax