Trickle Down Theory

You know, it is always nice to see the benefits when a good plan and adequate funding meet. And, while it is true that some really nasty things tend to roll downhill, it is also true that enrichment and exposure run downhill, as well. This weekend I had the pleasure of watching the Class of 2017 present their senior play. It never ceases to astound me the depth of talent that walks in the halls of our schools and this year’s offering was just as exceptional as years past. The only difference is that now we have the facility to facilitate that kind of talent. Sure, we made do before but it is wonderful to not just scrape by, doing the most with the least. The James D. Swann Performing Arts Center, a.k.a. the auditorium at Jefferson County High School, is a great addition to, not only the school, but to the community.

The senior play, Night of the Patriots, band concerts and choral offerings, drama experiences and all of the other introductions to the world of the arts bring something to our citizens, our community, that is difficult to quantify but impossible to ignore. It is through this type of exposure and enrichment that our community becomes a more enlightened place to live. For every student that participates in a program, either as a performer or the behinds the scenes crew, there is a direct benefit of enrichment and growth. But, it goes far beyond just that one student. It extends to parents and siblings who might have never otherwise had a reason to appreciate that area of growth. It trickles down to that student’s future children and even further, planting the seeds for future generations of artist and performers, dreamers and thinkers.

“If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him… We must never forget that art is not a form of propaganda; it is a form of truth.” ~ John F. Kennedy

Good Job, Class of 2017! For those that dedicate their time and effort in this and other endeavors that showcase the talent of our students and hone their appreciation for something beyond just the standard, the expected, the meat and potatoes of education, thank you! Your time and contribution are well spent and we, as a community, benefit from your donation. Enrichment and Exposure really do trickle down hill, touching those that come behind and watering the seeds so that something very, very wonderful can continue to grow.