Dear Prime Minister, I am writing to address the recent funding cuts to provincial arts programs in secondary schools. As a secondary teacher, I am concerned that this political decision will affect the welfare of students both within school in their academic journey and in their extracurricular options. In recent years, the funding available to my high school, St. Margaret of Windleby, has enabled students to invest themselves in high quality and successful yearly musicals. Productions of this magnitude build confidence in students, create recognition and prestige for the school, and create a connection between the school and the community. As well, funding in previous years has facilitated arts programs for students with special needs and underprivileged children who are mentored by senior secondary students. This enhances the well-being of all students and fosters compassion and care within the school community. Arts programs, in general, are highly rewarding for students who are at risk, or are in vulnerable life situations. It is my hope that with enough concerned responses from educators like myself, that your office will seek to reevaluate this drastic and unfortunate funding reduction. The value of arts at St. Margaret cannot be understated — perhaps a solution might be put forward to compensate and generate funding through new measures. I thank you for taking time to read my concerns. I am a dedicated teacher and citizen, and trust that our government will further address this issue. Most respectfully, Delia Cane