The May 6 press conference to support the arts for Milwaukee Public School students, at the Milwaukee High School for the Arts, was powerful and persuasive.   Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton led the conversation and the message:

Developing creativity and innovative and entrepreneurial talents of MPS children AND
ensuring all MPS students access to art and music education EQUALS
improved student achievement and outlook for Milwaukee.

In addition to Lt. Governor Lawton, these civic leaders spoke up for MPS students:  Christine Harris, Cultural Alliance of Greater Milwaukee; Wade Hobgood, Peck School of the Arts, UW-Milwaukee; Don Tyler, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra; Dan Keegan, Milwaukee Art Museum; Rich Meeusen, Badger Meter; and Paul Upchurch, Visit Milwaukee.

Press Conference attendees were treated to the music of the Milwaukee High School of the Arts Choir under the direction of Raymond Roberts. The Choir was rehearsing for their performance at the MPS 43rd Biannual Music Festival.

Here are links to three important pieces of information regarding the Superintendent’s Budget:

· Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article on the Superintendent’s budget
http://www.jsonline.com/news/education/92454009.html

· The Superintendent’s Budget Overview
http://media.journalinteractive.com/documents/FY11-Superintendents-Overview.pdf

· Doyle signs law giving Superintendent power to intervene in schools
http://www.jsonline.com/news/education/92474359.html

Arts Wisconsin has created a website with information and resources, including a map created by Arts@Large detailing access to arts programs at all MPS schools.  Go to http://www.artswisconsin.org/research/artsmilwaukeepublicschools.cfm to learn more about how you can speak up for MPS students and the arts in Milwaukee public schools.