It’s a treat to see the interior of Sartell High School – and other schools – in Sartell so enlivened with art works.
Most of us take art for granted. Life would be quite humdrum dreary without art. Imagine what the daily world would be like without all of the elements of art, of beauty. Without the architectural harmonies of public buildings and homes. Without landscaped parks and other green spaces. Without sculptures, paintings, theater and all of the other arts that surround us. It would, indeed, be a dull world.
Many school districts have whittled down their arts and music programs to virtual non-existence, which is a crying shame. Some people, apparently, think arts and music are either frivolous subjects or unnecessary – the first to go during a budget crunch. That view is just plain wrong. Studies have shown students exposed to art and music not only live happier, enriched lives, but they are also more productive. The arts and music sharpen the senses, open the mind, pique curiosity and lead to innovative ways of approaching problems and finding solutions.
Thank goodness the Sartell-St. Stephen School District realizes the importance of art and music. The two recent mural projects at Sartell High School are just two examples of how art is honored and is interwoven with other activities at the schools.
It’s such a pleasure to see how the arts come together in the many excellent theatrical productions in Sartell schools. Those arts include music, singing, acting, stage sets, costume design, lighting and other components that add up to entertainment and often thought-provoking performances of quality plays.
Our hats go off to all the art, theater and music teachers in the district. We also extend our kudos to the many fine artists-in-residence who share their talents year-round at the schools in Sartell. They include painters, poets, theater people, musicians and other instructors of amazing talents. It’s always impressive how those visiting masters instantly inspire the students, unleashing a flurry of creativity and bursts of imagination. We also want to thank the Sartell-St. Stephen Education Foundation, which funds so many arts-related projects.
Three cheers for the “Arts in Motion” program at Sartell High School and all of the other “arts in motion” that thrive in the Sartell-St. Stephen School District.
