[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 44 (Tuesday, April 15, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S3229]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       MUSIC IN OUR SCHOOLS MONTH

 Mr. SANTORUM. Mr. President, I would like to take a few 
minutes of Senate business to discuss Music in Our Schools Month.
  Throughout the month of March, which was designated Music in Our 
Schools Month, the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association [PMEA] 
promoted public awareness of arts education. On March 11, the 
Pennsylvania Alliance for Arts Education sponsored the Second Annual 
Arts in Education Day in Harrisburg, PA. Representatives from PMEA also 
attended the ``SingAmerica'' campaign here in Washington, DC, on March 
13. In addition to renewing an interest in music, ``SingAmerica'' 
sought to restore a sense of pride in our communities.
  For years, public schools in Pennsylvania have provided opportunities 
for children to grow and learn through the arts. Several teachers have 
observed that studying music has helped children learn to work in 
groups, to think creatively, and to communicate more effectively. 
Moreover, music education has helped introduce students to history and 
cultural studies.
  Mr. President, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the 
teachers who have dedicated their lives to preparing children for the 
future. I hope my colleagues will join me in thanking them for their 
commitment to improving education.

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