Mr. DiIanni introduced Miss Rothero, consultant responsible for the arts, Mrs. Clay, Special Assignment Teacher and Mrs. MacKenzie. Mrs J. MacKenzie reiterated the importance of maintaining the balance in the curriculum between sciences, technologies, humanity and arts. This is also a component in the Ministry's outline. Pat Rothero presented an overview of the music program and spoke to the importance of developing the whole child. Music is important in the church and should be as important in the schools.
Volunteer work is a big part of the art programs.
Staffing is an important issue and should be studied in more detail. Mr. McIntyre agreed that a more comprehensive report is required that would review the arts in general to bring the program up to an acceptable level. It was pointed out that while the FSL program will provide a good basis for music at the junior levels, the Board is experiencing budget restraints. The need for teachers trained in the arts was discussed. Mr. DiIanni advised that when hiring, staff will be looking for multi-faceted teachers.