Senator Lieberman Visits The Artists Collective

Senator Joe Lieberman was in Hartford today, visiting an arts program for at-risk students. WNPR’s Tucker Ives reports.

Last month, Senator Lieberman announced the Senate Appropriations Committee approved half a million dollars to go to the Artists Collective in Hartford. The money will be used to get more at-risk youth involved in the arts.

On a tour of the facilities, students showed him what they’ve been working on this summer. The senator heard a jazz band, watched a martial arts practice, and checked out a dance rehearsal.

“These are kids who would otherwise be on the street, maybe causing trouble. They’re in this program, they have a sense of pride, they’re working hard.”

At a time when some schools are cutting arts education programs, the Artists Collective is filling a void. Founding Executive Director Dollie McLean says federal support allows them to keep offering these programs. She says Senator Lieberman knows what the students are getting out of it.

“He understands the discipline, the standards, all of what these young people are experiencing.”

Students were looking forward to the Senator’s visit. One even gave Lieberman thumbs up as he looked through the door.

For WNPR, I’m Tucker Ives.