As an art student at Kutztown University, I've put in a lot of effort to get good grades and excel in my classes, only to face rising costs for essential art supplies. These rising prices stress my already tight budget, making it difficult to succeed academically. I cannot continue to afford these expenses, and I know I am not alone in this struggle. An example of this is with the 12 pack of Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils which are $13 on amazon and $25 in the campus store. The item prices vary from item to item but they tend to be more expensive in the campus store.

Art supplies are fundamental tools necessary for our collage education, yet at Kutztown University, they are becoming increasingly unaffordable, pushing many students, including myself, to make difficult choices between purchasing materials and meeting other essential needs. These costs place make it challenging for students who are passionate and committed to their art classes and Kutztown university, but lack the financial means to keep up with such steep prices. Many teachers are attempting to combat this by attempting to find lower priced items but most of the time, in order to teach the curriculum, most items can’t be changed for cheaper alternatives, or simply just needing that specific item.

To combat this growing issue, we propose that Kutztown University introduces a system to alleviate some of these financial pressures. We strongly urge the university to implement an art student discount on supplies purchased at the campus store. This discount would help significantly lower costs and promote a fairer educational environment for all art students. Furthermore, we request that the university clearly displays prices on the store shelf to help students better plan their purchases and manage their expenses effectively. Some items already have this which is much appreciated but many still don’t.

We understand that inflation, tariffs, and record breaking unemployment rates have made it hard for everyone in America, including the university itself, we would simply like to work alongside the university to come up with a financially stable solution for all of us. By making these changes, Kutztown University can directly support and invest in its art students, ensuring that they have the resources necessary to thrive academically and creatively, without the constant worry of financial strain.

We believe that by standing together and demonstrating the impact of these high costs on our education, we can inspire the university to take action. Join us in urging Kutztown University to support its student artists by signing this petition. Together, we can create a more affordable and supportive environment where art students can excel, without the burden of exorbitant supply costs.

(I would like to make it clear that I have no intent for this petition to be malicious in any way. I love being a student at kutztown university, but the prices for art students are becoming tough to handle financially for many of us.)