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Academic Excellence

Research shows that students who engage in more arts classes are significantly more likely to excel academically.

According to the 2023 State of the Arts Report from the Texas Cultural Trust:
Students are up to 112% more likely to score exceptionally on standardized tests.
They are twice as likely to graduate compared to their peers who do not take arts classes.

 

Enhanced Brain Development

Decades of peer-reviewed research indicate that participation in the arts significantly boosts brain function. Practicing music can increase synapses and gray matter, while dance participation can elevate mood-boosting neurochemicals. As Susan Magsamen, author of “Your Brain on Art,” states, “The arts provide children with the kind of brain development that’s really important for building strong neural pathways.”

 

Workforce Skills

In today’s fast-paced job market, creativity and problem-solving skills are highly sought after. Fine arts education fosters 21st century skills such as:

• Creativity

• Collaboration

• Critical Thinking

• Communication

• Perseverance

• Problem Solving

 

Despite 72% of employers emphasizing creativity as a primary concern when hiring, 85% report challenges in finding creative applicants. Clearly, arts education is crucial in preparing students for the workforce. #FineArtsBuildsHumanSkills

 

Social and Emotional Development

Engaging in the arts can reduce the risk of depression by 48%, as well as naturally develop necessary social and emotional learning (SEL) skills, making it a vital component of a child’s development. These skills include the following core competencies:

• Self-Awareness

• Self-Management

• Social Awareness

• Relationship Skills

• Responsible Decision Making

   

College Readiness

Research shows that students who engage in more arts classes are significantly more likely to excel in post secondary courses.

According to the 2023 State of the Arts Report from the Texas Cultural Trust:
Students who complete more arts classes are up to 46% more likely to pass Texas Success Initiative (TSI) criteria used for college placement.
They are twice as likely to meet AP/IB exam criteria and 20% more likely to earn college dual credit while in high school.

 

 

A Call to Action

Fine arts education is more than just an extracurricular activity; it’s a vital part of a well-rounded education as mandated by the ESSR law and even the Texas Education Agency (TEA) code states fine arts courses are essential learning and NOT an extracurricular activity! It is essential that we join the teachers to continue to support and advocate for fine arts programs in schools to ensure our children are well-prepared for the future.

Fine arts education enriches students’ lives academically, emotionally, and socially. It equips them with the necessary skills to thrive in a competitive workforce while fostering brain development. 

 

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