The arts are part of a balanced education, providing every student with crucial skills and knowledge they need to be productive, college- and career-ready individuals. As such, America’s students have the right to an arts education that includes dance, media arts, music, theatre, and visual arts taught by certified arts educators in partnership with community providers.

 

Despite being part of a well-rounded education as stated in federal education law, the Every Student Succeeds Act, too often arts education is marginalized in America’s public schools, particularly in low-income communities. 

 

An education without the arts is inadequate, given the dramatic ways arts experiences change children’s lives academically and personally. Traditionally underrepresented and special needs students often benefit the most from arts engagement. 

 

The arts are key to re-igniting students’ learning in the post-COVID-19 era and preparing them for success and happiness in a complicated 21st century world. To wit, arts education: 

 

• nurtures healthy, inclusive communities where all points of view are respected;

• promotes cultural awareness and civil discourse;

• supports the well-being of students and fosters a welcoming and safe school environment; and

• provides multiple pathways for every student’s creative voice and the communication of their ideas.