The Alliance had a very successful Arts Advocacy Day January 22nd.  In spite of the weather, we ended up with about 30 advocates (out of the almost 60) registered who were able to attend.  In 2 hours, they were able to speak to or give information to 75 legislators! Larry Murphy, IAAE lobbyist will make sure the other legislators will receive the IAAE Arts Advocacy Day informational packet.  

Miss Iowa, Emily Tinsman, did a great job singing the national anthem and speaking to legislative leaders and the Senate Education Committee on the importance of arts education.  Jim Fritz & David Law (mentors)  and Larissa Wilming (beginning teacher) spoke very eloquently on the importance and impact of the IAAE mentoring program. 

The team of teachers from the Johnson STEAM Academy also did a great job speaking to legislative leaders and the Senate Education Committee on the impact that STEAM Education has had on student achievement and engagement.  They were especially well received by the Senate Education Committee (applause at end of the presentation)!   Special thanks to Alan Greiner and Angela Matsuoka for taking care of all “behind the scenes” details of the day, and David Law, Donna Angell, Dave Krogan for being great advocates.  I will keep you all posted as the legislative session progresses. Thanks so much for your work and support of arts education in Iowa!