Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton announced on March 28, 2008, at MIAD a new task force on arts and creativity in education, convened to ensure that Wisconsin has the creative workforce and entrepreneurial talent needed for in the 21st century global economy.
“I see artists imagining solutions to 21st century problems,†said Lawton. “Creativity and innovation will be the cornerstone of Wisconsin competitiveness in the years ahead. We must make strategic investments now to ensure Wisconsin has the bright innovators and entrepreneurs we need to drive our state forward.â€
Co-chairing the Wisconsin Task Force on Arts and Creativity in Education is State Superintendent of Public Instruction Elizabeth Burmaster.
In what is described as an unprecedented collaboration, the two will invite members from a broad cross-section of the state’s business, arts and education communities to
- Examine state-level policies and local practices to determine their impact on the scope and access to quality arts education opportunities in Wisconsin
- Recommend changes and new initiatives to support arts education, creativity and innovation
- Identify sate and local organizations and businesses that can collaborate to provide leadership and resources in support of arts education, creativity and education.
“The arts build 21st century skills…†said Burmaster. “I know that the arts not only boost student achievement in school, they reinforce the knowledge and abilities business and industry need today and for the future.â€