$2 million in scholarships awarded at Broken Arrow Fine Arts signing day

For the second year in a row, Broken Arrow Public Schools held a Fine Arts Signing Day—giving students in band, choir, orchestra, theater, and speech & debate the kind of spotlight typically reserved for athletes. We spoke with Darrin Davis, Executive Director of Fine Arts at BAPS, about why this day matters and what it means for the future of arts education.

Q: How do you feel seeing these students commit to their future in the arts?

This is a great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our graduating class of seniors who are going into the fine arts.

Q: Why do you think a fine arts signing day is necessary?

Athletics are extremely important both nationwide and here at Broken Arrow, but Fine Arts is really special here, too. And it shows a recognition and support from our administration that every activity, athletics and arts all matter because their academics are what leads them here.

Q: This was your second signing day. How has it grown?

We started in year one with about 20 students. This year, we had over 40 students sign letters of intent for collegiate fine arts programs.

Q: What makes Broken Arrow’s fine arts program so successful?

It's a testament to a great culture. It's a great environment for students to find their place where they belong, to celebrate their talents. And clearly, they have incredible teachers who guide them along the way.

Q: These students also earned quite a bit in scholarships. What can you tell us about that?

A staggering almost $2 million worth of scholarship money has been earned by these 40 students, as they continue on their post-high school careers into their collegiate endeavors.

Q: You’ve spent decades in fine arts education. What does a day like this mean to you personally?

As someone who's been a fine arts teacher for over 30 years and now transitioned into fine arts administration, I mean, this is the cherry on top. This is what it's all about: to create a foundation where students can excel and express themselves and matriculate through our school system.

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