Arts education has long suffered the reputation of being a bonus, rather than a priority. With the testing mandated by No Child Left Behind, this is a problem that has worsened.

But courses such as art, music and drama are essential parts of a well-rounded education and should not fall to the wayside, something Hawaii Arts Alliance understands.

Today, during its Celebrate the ARTS! benefit and concert, the organization will present its Alfred Preis Lifetime Achievement Award, named after the architect of legislation that requires 1 percent of all public construction monies be spent on art in public places. This year, that award goes to Satoru Abe, 81, a sculptor whose gallery can be found in Mo'il'ili.

Arts Alliance also honors schools each year for arts achievement, rotating among elementary, middle and high schools. This year, numerous high schools will be honored, and will receive awards ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.

"With No Child, it's difficult for teachers to take extra time and learn new methodology," said Marla Musick, communications director for Hawaii Arts Alliance. "It's a huge commitment."

It's one worth making for our children.