Dear Editor and Appling County Citizens,

The Arts Council of Appling County is concerned about the cuts in the public school programs.

At a recent meeting of the Arts Council this issue was discussed. In response to our concern for the students of Appling County schools, and our commitment to the arts as a vital part of a balanced educational experience, it was decided to offer our voice into the public dialogue.

The members of the Arts Council believe it is very important to our Community for our children to have the opportunity to be educated and introduced to all of areas of education in our schools. Not every student in Math and Science will become an Einstein. Not every student in English will become another Shakespeare. Not every student in ROTC will become a General or an Admiral. Not every student in Art will become a Rembrandt. Not every student in Music will become a Mozart. However, if they are introduced to the different areas of education, one may find the cure for cancer, one may write the most important book in our future, one may be the military person that will lead to save our nation from terrorism, or one may be the most gifted artist or musician ever to be born. Not all athletes will make the pros - occasionally one will. What a shame if they would have never been exposed to sports.

Without introductions and exposure in ALL of the education areas, students will not have the opportunity to realize their unique interest, skills or abilities.

Many students from Appling County have gone on to become writers, artists, military personnel protecting our freedom, musicians and pro athletes.

Not ALL students excel in ALL areas, nor will they pursue it. However, if we overlook just one or as many as one thousand, that decision has the potential to affect ALL of our futures.

Speaking on behalf of the members of the Arts Council, we would respectfully ask our Board of Education to find ways to trim programs but please do not cut them. Please keep diverse, enriching educational experiences in place for ALL students. Cutting programs indicates they may never be brought back. Are plans already being made for the rooms presently designated as areas for art instruction?

God put a talent in each one of us. It will be a shame for our children and a loss to our community if students are not allowed the opportunity to discover their God given talent, whether it is in the arts, athletics, or academics.

Our children are the future of the world. The way their educational experience is structured here in Appling County can serve to prepare them to handle that responsibility with creativity and excellence.

Respectfully,

Eunice Martin

President of Arts Council of Appling County