The DNA Arts program at Laura Secord Secondary School has been integral in fostering creativity and mental well-being among students in the Niagara Region for many years. Known for its exceptional Arts courses and the highly anticipated school musicals, the program has offered countless students a chance to explore and express their artistic talents. However, recent administrative decisions have jeopardized these opportunities by cutting some of the DNA Arts courses and purposely delaying arts initiatives such as being able to run the musical for next year.

It's imperative that the administration and school board recognize the value of arts education in nurturing well-rounded, emotionally stable students. Research consistently shows that engagement in arts education is linked to improved mental health, better academic performance, and increased self-esteem among teenagers. Cutting these programs is not just a loss of extracurricular activities; it is a detriment to the comprehensive education and mental health support that our students so desperately need.

Additionally, there's a pressing need for administration and school board transparency with both families and students. There must be clarity regarding what constitutes a "full class" and how these decisions are made. Such transparency is critical if we are to maintain trust and cooperation between all stakeholders involved.

We urge the administration and school board to collaborate with us in preserving the DNA Arts program at Laura Secord Secondary School. By doing so, they would affirm their commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and comprehensive educational environment.

We are calling on all concerned members of the community, parents, students, and alumni alike, to stand with us. Sign this petition to advocate for the protection, transparency, and accessibility of the arts at Laura Secord Secondary School, and help secure the future of arts education in Niagara.