4th District AAF Puts Art Back in Florida Schools
This fall, members of the 4th District American Advertising Federation will undertake a major statewide public service initiative "Keep Art in Florida Schools". Our goal is to give 6,000 students around Florida a taste of art by using 4th District Artists and Creative Directors to teach simple elements of design and art.
Most elementary schools in Florida no longer have formal art instruction due to budget cuts and lack of time. Since art makes us more human and creates deeper long lasting benefits, the more than 2,000 members of the 4th District will lend their expertise to our schools by donating their time to put art back into our schools. Each of the 23 local clubs will work with elementary schools in their communities to bring the schools art supplies, their talent, and the curriculum to tie it all together.
According to Will Gregory 4th District Public Service Co-Chair, "Lime Street Elementary School in Lakeland beta-tested this idea with great success. The students, the teachers and the administration highly approved of the project after their experience. It is easy and it works. The reward of thanks from the students and lots of smiles made the effort worthwhile."
However, this initiative has a creative twist (would you expect any less?). It will combine public service with our legislative efforts. Keep Art in Schools will culminate next spring in Tallahassee where art samples will be hand delivered by members of the 4th District AAF to the Florida Senate,sending a message that art should be funded in our schools.
Asked for comment, 4th District Governor Tom Hayes said, "I'm very pleased with the campaign that Dr. Gregory and his team have developed for 4th District this year. This will be a public service campaign that every member of the district will be proud to present to their community. It's relevant to our industry and necessary for our schools."
This project should motivate other community organizations and agencies to continue the 4th District initiative. So to help get the word out, the 4th District has also created a comprehensive media campaign utilizing famous artists' works to illustrate the importance of Keeping Art in Schools.
We can save future DaVincis and Rodins just by lending our schools a helping hand and doing what we do best - show our creativity! You may be surprised to find out that your attention to a 5th grade class may be the first real art experience for them. You will enjoy this public service as much as the children you teach.
