By: Vlada Rauner, Features Editor
It happens to be a popular stereotype that public schools put little funding aside for their fine art programs. The photography teachers at River Hill High School would probably be inclined to agree.
On November 29th, an announcement was sent out on the school’s website, where the River Hill Photography department regarded the visual arts programs, to be “a dying breed across high schools” and even colleges.
River Hill High School was built in the heart of “the second wealthiest county in the United States – with a population of around 330,000 ”(USCB). This stereotype of lafunding shouldshould not be so accurate for such a wealthy community.
HCPSS operating budget for 2019, provided over $13.6 million dollars towards the music program, while only allowing about 5 million towards the visual arts. On top of these budget cuts, funds get split between “art equipment, such as kilns, paper cutters, enlargers, as well as furniture, are provided on a rotating basis or as needs arise in schools” (HCPSS). Every year, the Art departments receive annual funding for supplies. In turn, this forces the quality and quantity of the art programs to be dependant on annual assets. There is never a guarantee that the annual funding will increase or decrease. The materials that are purchased get rotated among the schools as a means to maximize their usage.
Yet, on the other hand, RHHS is fortunate enough to have facilities such as a dark room and multiple art classrooms available for the students. The River Hill Photo Department stated that they were grateful when “a few years ago when the County was forced to decide between paying more per student or cut funding for photo, they thankfully left our program intact.” says the author of the announcement made in November. Despite the Clarksville and River Hill area being so affluent, it still remains as one of a handful of schools that has a functioning photography program.
River Hill’s visual arts department has survived the various budget cuts throughout the years, but recently they were forced to depend on donations. The photo class curriculum includes learning how to shoot with both digital and traditional film cameras. The photo department asked for “ any photo or darkroom equipment that is not getting use” due to the lack of funds for the department.
Students with access to photography classes have a chance to grow. Benefits of working with a camera range from learning how it works to a more broad understanding of technology in general. Also, participating in creative activities like photography and drawing can reduce anxiety and increase the release of endorphins. On top of that, students get a safe space where they can express themselves without fear of judgment. With younger generations receiving more stress than ever, the availability of a safe space where you can relax is more vital than ever. But with only a snapshot of the budget that was given to other programs, the photography classes might become just a picture of the past.