Westhill High School students say the cutting of an art program means others will miss out on invaluable preparation for the future.

Budget cuts spelling the end of the Art Career Academy program were finalized Tuesday. The after-school program has been in existence for eight years. It fosters the skills of students in seven different genres of art and enables them to work with professional mentors.

The program's founder Jane Hamara says the ACA provides a wealth of experience for the students.

?Honestly, walking into a college audition without this, I would have been empty handed,? one student said.

The 28 students in the program will show off their final work at the school Friday. The event will include musical performances, theater, photography and other projects. The kids say they still have hope someone will step in to help donate and save the program.