I just received an email and saw multiple Facebook posts about LACHSA (Los Angeles County High School for the Arts) facing drastic cutbacks. I graduated from LACHSA in 1995 and going there was one of the best experiences in my life.

I know that every public school is facing cutbacks and to some an arts education sounds like a luxury rather than an essential. All I know, is LACHSA is a special place. It saddens me to think that arts teachers will lose their jobs and that classes will be cut. I think the structure of LACHSA allows students to develop deeper bonds with their teachers than would normally develop in a traditional high school. I felt like I graduated with a group of mentors that helped guide me and from that I was better prepared for my future.

I also feel like since my school was arts focused and had abandoned many of the traditional trappings of high school life ( sports, most dances, cheerleaders, et) the students were more driven. People had their group of friends, but there was less of a leaning towards forming cliques or excluding people. I would be hardpressed to pick out the "popular" kids. This all fostered an atmosphere of creativity and learning. I always looked forward to being in class and having new experiences.

LACHSA isn't perfect, but it is something special and worth fighting to save. My life is so much richer from having attended - amazing friends, incredible experiences and teachers/mentors who work so hard. I am really sad to think of what these changes will mean for both the teachers and students.

If you are able, please consider making a donation. It's such a worthy cause!