March was Arts Education Month, and the California State Parent Teacher Associations and the California County Superintendents Educational Services Association Arts Initiative celebrated with a gathering of State, Regional and Parent Arts Education Leaders.

The PTA has played an integral role in bringing the arts to students throughout the County. Often it is only through PTA funding and involvement that children are introduced to art – in all its forms. I know that my own children had wonderful education in the arts in their public school thanks to the involvement of an active PTA.

On hand to express their appreciation to the PTA for their support of the arts were folks from the California County Superintendents Educational Services Association, the Assembly Committee on Arts, the Office of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, the California Arts Council, and parent arts education leaders.

The highlight of the gathering was when the Bret Harte Elementary School Choir performed. They received a standing ovation. The children in the choir were engaged, focused, and articulate – as well as talented. They provided positive proof that arts education works for kids. Thanks to the PTA, they have it.