We, Sophia Griffin and Frida King, are students at the Arcata Arts Institute. We’re sophomores and this is our first year in AAI. Art, in all of it’s forms, has a huge impact on helping mental health, and should therefore be thoroughly offered... Read More

We, Sophia Griffin and Frida King, are students at the Arcata Arts Institute. We’re sophomores and this is our first year in AAI. Art, in all of it’s forms, has a huge impact on helping mental health, and should therefore be thoroughly offered in schools. It can help deal with a variety of mental-health conditions and psychological distress through the ability of free expression and the simple dopamine release of pencil on paper. The Arcata Arts Institute has an excellent visual art, theater, and music program, but we are lacking in a strong dance program. All aspects of art have value; dance fits into this. Art has supported our mental health because it is a wonderful outlet to channel feelings that we can’t put into words. Please continue to put resources into the visual art program and consider including dance in AAI. Thank you for your time and effort with all things art. Sincerely, Frida King and Sophia Griffin Show Less

Mental health has been a big concern especially with the pandemic going on. Students have struggled with the change that happened so abruptly and struggle to keep going when there doesn't seem to be a point. The feelings and emotions are... Read More

Mental health has been a big concern especially with the pandemic going on. Students have struggled with the change that happened so abruptly and struggle to keep going when there doesn't seem to be a point. The feelings and emotions are overwhelming, but we are not alone because the school board works endlessly to help each and everyone of us succeed. Show Less

This district and school isn't perfect, I admit that. Many decisions make me scratch my head, but then again, no one is perfect. You try your best, as most people do, and think for the best of us. Though the absolute best you've ever done for... Read More

This district and school isn't perfect, I admit that. Many decisions make me scratch my head, but then again, no one is perfect. You try your best, as most people do, and think for the best of us. Though the absolute best you've ever done for students, is just letting them be themselves without forcing them into a specific mindset. Show Less

Art has been proven to help immensely with students' mental health. Not just art such as drawing and painting, but performance arts such as music, dance, and drama. Many schools in California do not offer any sort of art programs, and students... Read More

Art has been proven to help immensely with students' mental health. Not just art such as drawing and painting, but performance arts such as music, dance, and drama. Many schools in California do not offer any sort of art programs, and students suffer from this lack of a creative outlet. Schools would be more successful, and the students would enjoy school more, if art programs were included in the school day. The arts can help people clear their heads, or provide an outlet for any pent up energy. My video is an attempt to show how vital art is to students who struggle with their mental health. It shows how a student’s day at school can cause a lot of stress and anxiety, and art is a great way to clear their head and help them relax. If students’ were able to clear their heads by participating in an art program during the school day, then they would be able to go through the rest of their day in a much happier state. Art during school could help students learn more during their classes and get much more out of the school day. Even something as simple as taking time during an English or science class to stop and have the students draw a picture could make a big difference. But the more options available, the better. It is my hope that my video may influence even just one school to implement any sort of art program for its students. Show Less

Dear LVJUSD School Board, Using this project, we wanted to highlight how significant the arts are to mental health. It's important that arts education has sufficient funding and well-built programs, as they provide chances for growth and empathy. We... Read More

Dear LVJUSD School Board, Using this project, we wanted to highlight how significant the arts are to mental health. It's important that arts education has sufficient funding and well-built programs, as they provide chances for growth and empathy. We believe that classes for visual and performing arts–theatre, dance, music, visual and media arts–provide a chance for students to express themselves and work through their emotions in a supporting and positive environment. These classes are a safe space for students and help them find community within their school. Whether it be a new student having trouble connecting with others, someone who feels out of place within their group, or just someone who wants to try something new. Being able to have people to rely on is essential to keeping our students mentally healthy and safe. The arts allow for students to not only push through school, but thrive. Given the importance of arts education, all students should be able to experience the benefits of the arts every day at school. Show Less