How We’ve Already Lost the Game – Pt.1
The Arts are Dying
Perhaps the arts are dying, and maybe we’ve come to accept this as a reality. Art classes, the small but dedicated art club, the musical cast and crew, the band and orchestra that haven’t seen the spotlight in a while, and the talented choir members—what support have they received to continue? What can this town offer if it doesn’t invest in creativity? Let’s take a closer look. We have all the potential we need, except for the funding to keep it alive. You’ll notice that every teacher warns you about the expenses at school. While students are privileged and have most of what they need, the arts don’t have the same support. Here’s why the arts are struggling in Juab, and why sports seem to be taking on the burden.
Juab High School is known for its competitive spirit and hardworking students. Our Speech and Debate teams often take home wins. Our football team is filled with dedicated athletes who challenge themselves year after year. Basketball knows how to improve and show commitment on the court. Our wrestling team, made up of hardworking individuals, puts on a great show in the ring. Our sports programs are thriving—even with minimal support from peers. There has been a noticeable shift as the year goes on. The “Pit” is growing in popularity, and student participation is on the rise. We can thank our committed SBOs for this change. They organize dress-up days, plan activities after games—doing everything they can to bring students together. It’s a shame they don’t do the same for the arts.
Our most recent musical, The Lightning Thief, had an audience primarily made up of family and close friends. They don’t complain about the lack of a sold-out show, as there hasn’t been one in years. Our band and orchestra students are barely seen outside of their performances. Their hard work is recognized mainly by their parents. Our clubs—writing, art, and even the new Positive Peers club—are announced and their posters decorate the halls. So why aren’t these clubs more popular?
Many students argue that they don’t join these clubs because they have after-school practices or jobs. But what about those who manage to attend events in the Pit? My goal isn’t to guilt-trip anyone. Instead, I want to understand why Juab’s arts are struggling while our sports programs continue to thrive. I don’t intend to diminish the importance of sports—I support our teams, just like everyone else. I’ve spent hours writing about our victories and losses. But I’ve also supported our clubs. I’ve watched the Art Club’s numbers shrink, seen talented seniors graduate, and felt the pressure fall on younger students to keep extracurricular activities alive. This includes the arts and music departments.
Why not involve our musical students more? Why not celebrate the plays, the band, the orchestra, and the choir? What about our arts and pathway advisors? National Honor Society, Art Club, Positive Peers, Writing Club—these are just a few of the creative outlets for students working hard to share their talents. Why not show them the same support we give to sports?
More information will be shared in the next article. Thank you for your time.
—The Paper Flower