An Invitation to Join the TCQAE

We would like to invite you to become an Individual Member or Organization Member of the NEW Texas Coalition for Quality Arts Education (TCQAE). The TCQAE is the nation's largest coalition supporting fine arts (music, art, theatre, dance) education programs, Pre-Kindergarten through college.

The TCQAE is dedicated to create a Renaissance in Arts Education in Texas over the next five (5) years! The upcoming school year and 2009 Legislative year will be most important for fine arts education in Texas. We will monitor and give testimony on key issues affecting the fine arts, and we will keep you informed.

The TCQAE has accomplished much:

• The TCQAE sponsored our 6th Arts Education Day at the Capitol, March 5, 2007.

• The TCQAE released a new analysis of Texas high schools and middle schools showing that
schools that have higher levels of student participation in fine arts receive higher academic ratings and have lower drop out rates.

• The TCQAE monitored and testified to the Legislature and State Board of Education (SBOE) regarding textbooks. Senate Bill 815 and other legislative and SBOE action. School districts are now required to teach music, art, and theatre in the elementary using the TEKS.

• The TCQAE produced the Teach Us! song with the composer Anita Kruse. The song was produced and arranged by Robbie Parrish and engineered by Andy Bradley of SugarHill Studios. The song can be downloaded from our new website in several months.

• The TCQAE created the Survey of Arts Education in Texas. This will be a real-time survey of the status of fine arts education. It will be on-line in several months. The survey will include information on the status of: staffing, budget, funding, activity fees, stipends, type of scheduling, enrollment, field trip policy, etc.

• The TCQAE developed The Texas Fine Arts Education ACCORD. The ACCORD states our common beliefs in what “quality ” arts education should be. It defines the fine arts and speaks to curriculum issues, scheduling, professional development, college education and teacher preparation, students with disabilities, Gifted and Talented/magnet schools, and financial support for the arts in our schools.

• The TCQAE developed the Teaching Children to be SmARTer Through the ARTS! PowerPoint and presented it all over Texas to train fine arts teachers, elementary teachers, and parents how to advocate the importance of the fine arts. Call if you want a presentation for your school or organization.

• And much More!

Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to the TCQAE so that we can continue our support of fine arts education in Texas.

Complete the Annual Dues/Donation Form and send to:
James Clarke, Executive Director
TCQAE
1120 Texas Avenue #5B
Houston, Texas 77002

Sincerely,


Robert Floyd, Chair