The Metropolitan King County Council Monday drew attention to the importance of arts education for the students throughout King County by declaring May Arts Education Month.

“For a child, participating in and learning about the ‘aRts’ is as important as Reading, wRiting and ‘Rithmetic. It’s fundamental to their education and development,” said Council Chair Larry Phillips, prime sponsor of the recognition. “Children with exposure to a diverse arts education grow up with the cognitive skills and ingenuity to not only enrich their community but work successfully in a variety of fields as well.”

“All kids should experience the joy brought by being involved in the arts – from a first finger painting project, to music concerts, dance recitals, and school plays,” said Council Vice Chair Joe McDermott. “We are all made richer by the way that the arts can transport us to another place and time, and open our minds to new perspectives.”

“The arts can be a powerful motivational tool in our schools,” said Council Vice Chair Jane Hague. “And every student can benefit from exposure to the creativity, imagination and initiative that an arts program brings to the classroom.”

The arts, including dance, music, theatre, and visual arts, are defined as a core content area in Washington State’s definition of basic education, and are considered an essential component of a complete education that should be provided for all students.

“Art is an essential part of our society. We should celebrate those that contribute in this field as they contribute ideas and creativity that make our world a diverse and better place to live,” said Councilmember Larry Gossett.  “Without art, our society will lose its soul.”

“Arts education is vital for all children as it engages the right brain and encourages the development of creativity,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert. “This creativity will help us solve problems, add joys and enhance our quality of life.”

“Just like math and science, students need a strong background in the arts and I am pleased to recognize this month as Art Education Month,” said Councilmember Reagan Dunn.

Education in the arts enables students to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills, imagination and creativity, discipline, alternate ways of communicating and expressing feelings and ideas, and cross-cultural understanding—thereby supporting academic success across the curriculum, as well as personal growth outside the classroom.

King County invests in arts and heritage education through 4Culture, a public development corporation chartered by county government to promote arts and heritage programs for all King County residents and visitors.