In today's globalized economy and job market, the level of education one has can have a significant effect on job and income prospects.
Israel is often cited as being at the forefront of entrepreneurship and innovative business initiatives. Yet, a major education gap exists in the Jewish State. According to the 2007 Statistical Abstract of Israel, 8th Grade GEM (Achievement Test) scores in English, Mathematics, and Science and Technology averaged a 20 point difference between Jews and Arabs. Similarly, 44% of Jews attend some type of post-high school education versus 18.9% of Arabs- a number that when compared with the estimated 65% (USA Today Reported in 2005) of Americans that attend some type of college can be improved in both sectors. Educational statistics for Palestinians living in the West Bank and Gaza are even more disparaging. The education gap has partially resulted in a lack of economic opportunities, highlighted by a $191.5 billion difference between the Israeli and Palestinian GDPs.
Improving educational opportunities among Israel's minorities and low-income sectors is key to closing the imbalance in opportunity that exists both within Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and between Israel and the rest of the world. High-ranking Israeli officials and experts have emphasized that education is key to moving the peace process forward, and bringing security to Israel and the Middle East.
Notes for Peace can help to close the economic and achievement gap by expanding music and arts education, both in Israeli public schools, specifically in the Jewish low-income and Arab sectors, and the Palestinian authority. Art and especially music instruction has been said to have a positive effect on math and science scores (Johnson, Memmott 2006), cognitive ability, and provide students with a sense of community and self-worth (Sousa 2006).
Through its Youth Education and Achievement through the Arts (YEAA) Program, helping disadvantaged schools introduce music and art education programs, Notes for Peace can reduce the number of dropout and make a difference in the education and economic opportunities for Israeli and Palestinian youth.
