No matter whom we teach or what our subject, those of us whose jobs are to educate share a common responsibility and goal which supersedes age levels and subject matter. As a teacher of one of the arts, I face a constant challenge to make my subject a vital part of the student�s curriculum and to make it a balance weight with the other subjects on the education scales. My goal is to help students achieve a good educational balance since intelligence and knowledge are almost useless to those who possess nothing else.

I must plant the seed of thought about artistic cultural values by providing students with a living experience in experimentation with the new, as well as providing them with a sampling of past genius. I must make dissecting a symphony as valuable and as intriguing to them as dissecting a frog in the biology classroom.

Above all, I owe to my students an insight into things beautiful, for man needs beauty if he is to survive decently in a materialistic and dollar-conscious environment and not be suffocated by the mundane, the routine, or the trivial in our civilization.

I owe them the chance to discover emotion, spiritual satisfaction, and to help them unlock the door to new experiences and discoveries.

I owe students the opportunity to rub shoulders with great men and women in person by bringing these people to the classroom. I owe my students inspiration and breadth of experience by providing them the opportunities to hear the finest artists in concert, assembly, or recital.

I owe my students a chance to develop a sense of humor and an ability to laugh at themselves whenever present human frailties occur, as well as develop a sense of deep responsibility and determined purpose when needed.

I owe my students the benefit of individual help and counseling, and this I must see that they receive, no matter how demanding the time.

I owe my country my utmost effort at all times. A teacher�s influence upon students can be as lasting as radium.

My debt is great to the many teachers who have served before me and with me and left me the advantage of their wisdom.

I must aid my colleagues in assaulting ignorance, narrow thinking, and narrow interests.

I must give my students not some of these things, but all of them. My obligation is a great one.