JEFFERSON CITY - When taking a look at what students need to have a good, well-rounded, education, the arts play a vital role. All students benefit from the opportunity to experience the arts, and studies show that integrating the arts into a curriculum is crucial to providing a versatile education.

With this in mind, the 2016 Senate Art Exhibit is now accepting submissions for display in our beautiful Capitol building. The Missouri Alliance for Arts Education (MAAE) and the Missouri Art Education Association (MAEA) are excited to sponsor another year of student artwork at the Missouri State Capitol. Through this program, MAAE and MAEA provide students with an opportunity to showcase their work in a place where it can be seen by hundreds of people daily.

Teachers may digitally submit student work now through Nov. 22. In Jan. 2016, senators will be asked to view submissions from their districts and select winners for display.

Established in 2014, the Senate Art Exhibit showcases fine arts programs in all 34 Senate Districts. The exhibit is located within the Capitol in the hallway from Senate parking to the ground floor entrance of the Capitol.

For more information, visit: http://www.maea.net/senate_art_exhibit.

I strongly encourage schools in the 26th district to participate. I have admired many pieces of artwork from very talented students over the last year, and I look forward to seeing our students’ latest masterpieces.