So many times now a days, we hear about schools and universities cutting funding for their arts programs. They may be low on money and have to cut one program, or they may (and often do) give the money to athletics instead. However, the arts are extremely important, and funding them is crucial to the future. Here's why:

1.) The arts may help you land a job, even if it isn't a job in the arts.

Confusing, I know. So I'm going to simplify it: employers value creativity and innovation, two qualities that the arts cultivate.

2.) The arts are an escape from harsh reality.

For children who struggle at home, the arts can be a healthy escape, and can actually keep them out of trouble.

3.) The arts promote individuality and acceptance.

Since everyone's form of art is a little bit different but beautiful, you learn acceptance from the arts, which can be applied to daily life.

4.) The arts can make you smarter.

There is direct correlation between the arts and brain activity, and some studies even show that certain parts of the brain are only stimulated when exposed to the arts (especially music).

5.) The arts foster a sense of community.

Anyone who has been a part of the arts knows that the people you meet along the way become family.