Honey scholarships helps kids learn science from art.

Artistic expression goes beyond the ability to create and appreciate beauty. Studies show that it helps children develop creativity, critical thinking skills and self-confidence(1). The arts are also an excellent tool for learning core subjects like math and science(2).

Unfortunately, art programs in schools have been hit hard by budget cuts. The National Honey Board (NHB) hopes to revive the arts in public schools through their Beekeeper-for-A-Day Scholarship Program that also helps kids learn about life sciences.

“It’s important that we create opportunities for children to express themselves artistically,” states Bruce Wolk, Director of Marketing at the National Honey Board. “And drawing inspiration from nature, the art of beekeeping can be a powerful motivator.”

Beginning this month, children across the country can enter their artistic designs of a 100% pure honey label in exchange for the opportunity to visit a honey farm anywhere in the United States where they can learn firsthand about beekeeping and the science of making honey.

The Beekeeper-for-A-Day scholarship program is open to elementary school children nationwide who design and submit their own personal honey jar labels. The labels will be judged on creativity, design and originality. Finalists will win a weekend long internship to learn about life sciences at the honey farm of their choice, $500 in grocery gift certificates, a year’s worth of honey and a $1,000 scholarship for the school or art organization they attend. In addition, finalists will have the chance to have their winning label placed on limited edition honey jars. The contest runs from September 1st through October 23rd, 2006.

“It would be a tremendous shame to let art disappear from our schools altogether,” continues Wolk. “Artistic expression allows children the rare opportunity to participate in the magic of their own creation.”

To help spread the word about its Beekeeper-for-A-Day Scholarship, the National Honey Board has partnered with the following nonprofit arts organizations to keep the spirit of artistic expression alive for American kids:

— Dallas Children’s Museum, Dallas
— Mexican Fine Arts Center, Chicago
— Multicultural Education and Counseling through the Arts (MECA), Houston
— Self Help Graphics, Los Angeles