Caroline Conerly

I grew up in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.  I was the epitome of "Small Town, Big Dreams". I loved the arts including ballet, pointe, painting, acting, classical piano, and above all else, singing.  Because I loved the arts so much, I eventually began noticing the neglect we experienced in my school, school district, and within the entire public school system within the United States.

 

 

 

 

The arts programs I was involved in helped me to be grounded and driven.  Why would our people choose to neglect such a beautifully inspiring habit?

 

That is why I want more people my age (the "Twenty-Somethings") to gather together in order to ensure the continuation of the arts in schools.  For so many of us, the arts were what kept us alive in school.  We should do everything within our power to see that our children will have the joy of creating and having that niche in the school day.

 

The Plan:

I am a fan of all arts education advocacy organizations. I have personally chosen to make a pledge with Americans for the Arts and partner with the Mississippi Alliance for Arts Education. Last year I raised almost $11,000 for the betterment of arts programs within Mississippi schools.  During a time of economic hardship, we cannot expect our local and state governments to provide financial help to our educational system, especially not for the arts.  (In their defense, there are people whose salaries depend on the stability of the government and taxes.) 

 

I am not calling for legislative movement-- yet.  I am calling each of you to be involved in your communities to help your school's art programs stay alive! If you are a parent of a student, be involved in your Parent-Teacher organizations! Be involved in fundraising.  Be proactive and involved.  

 

I'm hoping my documenting my adventures will inspire you!