The Importance of the Arts in Our Schools

Years of research show that [the arts is] closely linked to almost everything that we as a nation say we want for our children and demand from our schools: academic achievement, social and emotional development, civic engagement, and equitable opportunity.

This quote is from an article in Edutopia, titled Why Arts Education Is Crucial, and Who's Doing It Best. Involvement in the arts is associated with gains in many areas, including academic development and positive character traits. Over the last few decades, arts in the schools have been eroded, but there is hope. Some school districts are now revitalizing the arts, many prompted by new findings in brain research and cognitive development.

Edutopia has a whole series of articles on the importance of arts education, including

• Why Arts Education Must Be Saved 
• The Arts Are Essential 
• Tucson Schools Enhance Learning with the Arts 
• Dallas Schools Draw on the Arts Community 
• Troubled Teens Explore Their Artistic Side 
• Art in Schools Inspires Tomorrow's Creative Thinkers  

Take some time to read these articles and encourage the arts in your child’s school. Incorporate art into your family activities. Development of the arts is at the very basis of highly civilized societies.

Do you want to know what your state policy is on arts education? Search the database at the Arts Education Partnership.