Ashley Scott says before she came to Multicultural Arts High School, her outlook on art—and life—was limited. She says the arts have challenged her perceptions of others. A budding poet, Ashley shares a short poem. Mark Hill adds that the arts not only help students express their own stories, but serve as an avenue by which students can find solace in each other’s stories. Over at Pershing Middle School, the arts are taking center stage. Students there are the city champs for ballroom dance. But Erica Fields and principal Cheryl Watkins say they want more arts in the classroom, and that will take more funding.

Featured Music: Ciara, “And I,” Goodies (La Face, 2004); Mos Def, “Love,” Black on Both Sides (Priority Records, 1999)