to the Editor :

Without the financial help of two local foundations, two meaningful academic programs would not have been possible this school year.

The Washington-Wilkes Arts Foundation provided the funds to support a Visiting Artist Program at W-W Primary School. Every student attended three classes of art instruction with visiting artist Janice McAvoy. The students' artistic creations not only increased their artistic abilities and deepened their appreciation for art, but they also supported their performance standards in science and social studies.

The Washington-Wilkes Historical Foundation provided the funds to allow the third grade students to visit the Washington-Wilkes Historical Museum and the Robert Toombs House. Both local historical sites have outstanding programs for every grade level, taking them on a trip to the past to experience how the early civilizations of Washington and Wilkes County lived and played.

As a teacher, I see first hand the positive impact and lasting impression these programs have had on our students this year, and I am very grateful to these community organizations for their generous help and support.

Giny King