The Spartans Speak

Scholar artist, the next big thing

Monday, March 19, 2012 By Emily Goulet

Earlier this month, many students at Pembroke Academy were awarded the prestigious honor of Scholar Athletes. And it is an excellent way to encourage students to work harder in school and in sports. My question: why is it only sports? Why aren’t there “Scholar Actors/Actresses?” Or “Scholar Musicians?” Or “Scholar Artists?” The fact that there is no recognition of scholars involved in other activities is indicative of our society. So much emphasis is placed on sports that the arts, in all forms, are often forgotten. Yes, staying physically fit is important. But so is art. Humans can’t exist without art. Yet, it is the sports stars who are paid millions of dollars. It is the sports stars who have a career of a few years and are set for life. Excluding the pop artists who are multi-millionaires, it is the artists, who also spend grueling hours preparing or practicing, and it is the artists who make a meager amount of money. It is the artists who work year after year to build their credibility. And it is sports that are recognized in our culture. As a student, it is hard to juggle schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and jobs. Students who play sports and succeed in school are awarded for their time commitment to academics and their passion. However, students who participate in drama club rehearse every day for plays and musicals. The week leading up to the show, the students are there until late at night. Students who participate in chorus or learn instruments dedicate their time every week to rehearse as a group. In addition, students are expected to practice these skills on their own time every day. Some students take lessons for instruments or voice, which is additional time commitment. The fine arts are skills that require a lot of time and hard work. To honor that, these students should be considered for an equally prestigious academic and arts award. Success in school and the arts should be an emphasis within public schools and the culture of the United States. Scholar athletes is an outstanding idea and should continue to be an honor at Pembroke Academy. But it is time to incorporate the next big program: “Scholar Artist.”