Advocacy starts with telling the story of why visual arts education matters.

Every day, art classrooms give students opportunities to create, communicate, solve problems, take risks, reflect, and see the world from new perspectives. Advocacy helps ensure that these meaningful art experiences remain an essential part of education for all Missouri students.

You don't have to be a policy expert to be an advocate. Share what is happening in your classroom. Celebrate student growth. Invite administrators and community members to art events. Talk about the skills students develop through art. Stay informed about decisions that affect arts education—and speak up when your voice can make a difference.

Small actions build greater understanding and support for visual arts education.

How Can You Advocate?

• Share the story. Show others what students are learning—not just what they are making.

• Build connections. Invite families, administrators, school boards, and community members into your art program.

• Celebrate students. Exhibitions, social media, newsletters, and community displays make learning visible.

• Stay informed. Pay attention to local and statewide decisions affecting arts education.

• Use your voice. When decisions are being made, help others understand why access to quality visual arts education matters.

Strong art programs need strong advocates—and all of us can be part of that work.

MAEA is committed to promoting, preserving, and advancing quality visual arts education throughout Missouri and connecting art educators with resources and opportunities to help them advocate for their students and programs.

Advocacy is stronger together. Join MAEA and help ensure every Missouri student has access to quality visual arts education.  #MeaningfulArtExperiencesforAll