My Letter to the Editor

Mike hides his face, but not his
fish. Angel does the opposite.

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to bring attention to a community program in which our family was able to part. In case you’re not immediately familiar with the biyearly Children’s Art Studio, it consists of a series of art classes about art vocabulary and techniques and usually covers a variety of art media, followed by an art showcase and reception. This program is organized by Ms. Sharon Cheatwood, the Arts Coordinator for the City of Lawton's Arts and Humanities Division, and is taught by local certified teachers.

My older two children, Angel and Micheal, participated in the 2012 Spring Children’s Art Studio, and had a wonderful and memorable experience. These types of classes are very important to my children, especially my son, who has special needs. They were able to participate because of grants that help fund the program as a whole, and that help fund a limited number of scholarships for lower-income families. This program was funded by the City of Lawton, the Lawton Arts & Humanities Council, the McMahon Auditorium Authority, the Oklahoma Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Angel stands by her gold-and-silver fish.

As you may know, art education is closely linked to academic achievement, social development, and civic engagement. Involvement in the arts is also associated with gains in education, critical thinking, confidence, and teamwork. Their contributions to this program helped to extend these benefits to a large number of children in our community, and are to be commended.