One of the most pointed issues in current education reforms is whether or not to retain arts and theatre programs in public school systems. No one knows more about the matter than former teacher Stephen Pitz. As someone with immense awareness of what constitutes student learning, Stephen Pitz remains adamant in his belief about the importance of keeping arts-based instruction available in school.
As a previous educator, Stephen Pitz knows the advantages of arts-focused programs in a learning setting. For one, students who attain knowledge of fine arts tend to gain more confidence in life, says Stephen Pitz. Confidence is key if a student is going to attempt something new, such as learning an instrument, or as in the case of Stephen Pitz, writing poetry.
Students with self-confidence tend to grow into more self-sufficient adults, asserts Stephen Pitz. Consequently, the contemporary public school system should offer programs focused on the arts so that students with aspirations may succeed in the same manner, continues Stephen Pitz. Theatre programs in particular foster individuality and interpersonal skills and Stephen Pitz has seen first hand that individuality is a key component of artistic expression.
According to Stephen Pitz, students have a basic sense of how to express themselves, but theatre gives them a fresh perspective and deeper appreciation of the arts. The modern tendency to downplay the fine arts in public schools has the potential to be disastrous for students. Without the availability of such extracurriculars, Stephen Pitz says that many students with raw, natural creative talent may go undiscovered.
As a past instructor, Stephen Pitz realizes that there is a fine line between teaching and mentoring, yet he recognizes that students sometimes need a push towards the unknown. What’s more, Stephen Pitz believes that he would never be the person he is today without exposure to fine arts. If children are the future, asks Stephen Pitz, then why let them squander opportunity to grow?