Arts in the Schools!! There are standards. There are mandates. Still, there are schools and school districts in New Jersey that do not have the required arts (either performing or fine) being taught in their schools. The research is clear when it comes to social-emotional learning and the arts. The research is clear, there is a correlation between English language arts and theatre. The research is clear, there is a correlation between math and music programs. The world can see the self-expression that comes through in a student's art product and the world realizes that dance is also physical exercise.
School districts offer after-school activities or bring in artists in residence for a day or two, but that small gesture is not the same as having a full blown arts program, one that includes fine arts, theater arts, and dance) embedded into the school's curriculum. I believe that the funding is there, it just needs to be allocated. Why is this not happening?
Below are links to a few articles that may help you with your response.
Good point regarding art programs in school districts. Studies in the arts is integral to our society. I am lucky that my son has an art program and as well attends afterschool music program. I feel many people do not see the importance of having an art/music/dance fine arts in school districts. I did not know that Title 1 schools may use funding for these programs. These programs can help children with the development of motor skills, language skills, social skills, decision-making and risk-taking. These programs help improve a student's memory and concentration skills as well.
ReplyDeleteAltisha Byrd
I really enjoyed this post about art programs in schools and I think anything to do with the arts is so essential to not just our society but also to student's progression in schools. In the district that I am student teaching, the art teacher travels to more than one school but the students love coming to her class and she makes every class fun and exciting. I agree with Altisha that some people think that having an art/music/dance and even fine arts and theater program in a school is not necessary which I find so hard to believe because children need that exposure as they help children not just with their creativity but also allow their skills like fine and gross motor skills to develop, but more so it gives them a chance to look at something in a different light.
ReplyDeleteNicole
ReplyDeleteI agree that the arts are important because they teach students so many life skills, and allow them to express themselves. I believe that more schools should be incorporating the arts as required classes, and think it’s sad when they say they aren’t as important as academics or because there is no funding. In today’s society the arts are expanding and schools need to adjust their curriculums to reflect this societal change. I also agree that having an after school program or speaker come in is not enough time to allow the students to truly benefit from the various aspects the arts provide. In order for students to really experience the perks the arts have to offer they need time to understand them and the benefits they provide. Not everyone might be an artist, dancer, or musician, but everyone can understand how they calm oneself and help us relax to think more clearly. I think schools focus too much on standardized test scores and meeting state and government expectations that they forget that the arts can help benefit students with academics. Studies show that when students are relaxed or listen to instrumental music while completing an academic task their scores tend to improve. I agree the funds are there and should be used more wisely to benefit our students in all ways, not just academically.