My research topic for project 2, which I've finally decided on after many days of frustration (thank you, Emily!!), focuses on public education budget problems, specifically centered around funding for the arts programs in k-12 public schools (and also, much to my disappointment, the lack of such funding and resources). I've decided the best option for a "living" source as a research element would have to be the high school I attended. Along with my familiarity of the area, this us a good place to start, because as I am dismayed to say, Amphitheater High School is one school of many in which AIMS scores have not lately met national standards, resulting in a drainage of desperately needed funds and other problems (namely larger class sizes, laying off of teachers, and the declining state of the school's art and athletics programs). I will take a trip over to Amphi High and interview one of my previous teachers. I think I would especially do well to interview the art teacher or music teacher, both of whom I am fond of. This is relevant to both my interests and my deep concern, since I am working toward a degree in music education; needless to mention, the issue of public funding in the arts is of dire importance to me. My only question which remains is whether I'd have the time to make such a venture....well, it is required so I'm going to have to find the time! Perhaps an email interview will suffice... I'll figure it out very soon, I'm sure.
-Becky D
