The arts play a vital role in education. All students benefit from the opportunity to experience the arts. Studies show that integrating the arts into a curriculum is vital to providing a well-rounded education.

With this in mind, the 2016 Senate Art Exhibit is now accepting submissions for display in our beautiful Capitol building. I have joined with the Missouri Alliance for Arts Education (MAAE) and the Missouri Art Education Association (MAEA) 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 November 22. In January 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 on the grounds of the Capitol in the hallway from Senate parking to the ground floor entrance of the Capitol.

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

I strongly encourage schools in the 21st 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.

As always, please feel free to contact me or my staff with any questions or concerns at any time. We look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions and trying to answer any questions you may have. You can reach us by phone at (866) 277-0882 (toll-free) or (573) 751-2272, or by fax at (573) 526-7381.

Senator David Pearce serves Caldwell, Carroll, Howard, Johnson, Lafayette, Livingston, Ray and Saline counties in the 21st State Senatorial District.