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May 24, 2013 <br /> To Whom It May Concern: <br /> I am a third grade teacher at a high poverty school in Orange County, North Carolina—Central <br /> Elementary. For the past five years we have had the privilege of working with the Art Center to provide <br /> high quality art residency programs for our students. <br /> I'd like to tell you what amazing benefits this program has provided. <br /> My students do not have opportunities like many other children. They do not visit museums or go to <br /> camps,they do not go to plays, zoos or puppet shows. The ArtsCenter has given them an experienC <br /> like no other. <br /> The artists arrive and immediately pull the children into their world. The kids become artists. We have <br /> made puppets, masks, three-dimensional suns, murals, totem poles, and so much more. The artists <br /> teach art, culture, and social studies all at once. They provide the materials and the techniques, but <br /> even more,they are models. <br /> I have seen children who can't read on grade level, come from impoverished homes, and have discipl ne <br /> issues flourish in the residency program. They find some kind of connection to the art that helps them <br /> realize they have gifts as yet untapped. They help each other; they applaud each other's work,they <br /> proudly display it for school and families. <br /> On top of the residency program, we have been able to attend programs at The ArtsCenter, for free, <br /> with performers who are tied to the art our students studied. We saw puppeteers when we made <br /> puppets; we heard Native American tales when we made masks and totem poles, we watched Hispania <br /> dancers when we made Mexican folk art sun symbols. The students were able to talk to performers, <br /> work on crafts with our artists and view displays on our field trips. <br /> I know we have been so, so lucky to have had this opportunity for so long. I realize other kids need to <br /> share this chance to work with such fine artists. However, if at all possible, I would hope that our <br /> students,with such great needs, would continue to get this opportunity in the future.... <br /> Thank you for the opportunity to be part of this vital, community outreach. It matters. <br /> Most sincerely, <br /> (Name withheld for this grant, but available on request) <br /> Third Grade teacher <br /> Central Elementary <br /> Orange County Schools <br />