The Federal Government and Arts in the Schools: Easing Integration Through Special Arts Projects

For a number of years, MENC members have been seeking information about the various programs under which the federal government grants funds for strengthening school programs in music education and arts education. A comprehensive guide to information on federal arts projects, Cultural Directory: Guide to Federal Funds and Services for Cultural Activities, was published last year by the Associated Councils of the Arts. The directory is available for $4.00 from the Associated Councils of the Arts Publications, 1564 Broadway, New York City 10036. With the encouragement of Harold Arberg, director of the arts and humanities staff at the U. S. Office of Education, the MENC headquarters staff has collected information on several federal-grant programs that are currently providing support for music and arts education projects. The following article describes Special Arts Projects in South Carolina, New Mexico, and Kentucky and is the first of several articles that will show how federal funds are being used to support the arts in our schools.