Washington Recognizes March as Arts in Education Month

Mayor Millie Youngquist proclaims the importance of arts education for student success.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 4:25pm

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The City of Washington, Iowa has recognized March as Arts in Education Month. Mayor Millie Youngquist, a former vocal music teacher, read a proclamation highlighting how learning through the arts enables students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding - all of which support academic achievement and personal growth.

Why it matters

This proclamation underscores the vital role that arts education plays in developing well-rounded students and the benefits it provides beyond just the classroom. As schools continue to face budget constraints, initiatives like this help raise awareness and support for preserving and expanding arts programs.

The details

Mayor Youngquist's proclamation stated that 'Learning in and through the arts enables students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, imagination and creativity, perseverance, alternative ways to communicate and express feelings and ideas, cross-cultural understanding and empathy - all which support academic success across the curriculum as well as personal growth outside of the classroom.'

  • March 2026 has been designated as Arts in Education Month in Washington, Iowa.

The players

Millie Youngquist

The mayor of Washington, Iowa who previously worked as a vocal music teacher for the WACO school district.

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What they’re saying

“Learning in and through the arts enables students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, imagination and creativity, perseverance, alternative ways to communicate and express feelings and ideas, cross-cultural understanding and empathy all which support academic success across the curriculum as well as personal growth outside of the classroom.”

— Millie Youngquist, Mayor of Washington, Iowa

The takeaway

This proclamation by the City of Washington highlights the vital importance of arts education in developing well-rounded students and supporting their academic and personal growth. As school districts continue to face budget constraints, initiatives like this help raise awareness and support for preserving and expanding arts programs in the curriculum.