1st Arts Symposium Hopes to Be Big Draw

Hoping to stir the creative juices of local students, Ventura County educators will host the county’s first-ever Arts Education Symposium in an effort to generate new programs and activities for school-aged youngsters.

The symposium will be held Oct. 16 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Cowan Conference Center, 550 Airport Way in Camarillo.

The program will feature New West symphony conductor Boris Brott and ethnomusicologist John Zeretske. It is a collaborative effort between the county superintendent of schools office, the Mid-South California Arts Project and the Ventura County Arts Council.

“This landmark symposium will hopefully be the first of many,” said Supt. Charles Weis. “We hope this symposium will not only help build stronger bonds among educators, artists and organizations, but also provide a catalyst for more collaborative work in nurturing the creative spirit of Ventura County children.”

The symposium will include a student art display and musical performance, and will culminate with round-table discussions on ways to support art experiences for youngsters.

“As the official arts agency for Ventura County, we strongly believe that the arts should be an integral part of every child’s education,” said Susan Feller, director of the arts council.

The registration fee is $10 and that includes a box dinner and materials. Reservations should be made by Oct. 9.

For more information, contact Diane Dempwolf at the county schools office at 388-4411.