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Commentary: Arts matter. Education matters. Kids matter. But, not everywhere in America

pencils
Mariana Dale/KJZZ

"Children are the future of the nation. If the children are intelligent, the country will be prosperous."

This Thai proverb is echoed in Linda Creed’s lyrics: "I believe that children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside."

These inspirational words feel hollow when considering a troubling disconnect between our societal ideals and the nation’s tangible commitment to our children, particularly in the realms of education and the arts — the twin pillars of an informed and flourishing society.

Read the entire commentary on Substack In The Center Lane With Herb Paine →

More commentaries from Herb Paine

Commentator Herb Paine is president of Paine Consulting Services in Phoenix.