Written by: Catherine De Orio
In recent years, arts programs have been cut from schools as curriculum has shifted towards common core subjects such as math and reading. While art education is seen as a luxury to many, creative activities and classes are some of the most important building blocks of development, from infancy to adulthood. Arts programs of all kinds from painting to cooking have been correlated to achieving success in school, as well as in work and life.
Although numerous studies have linked arts programs to increased math and science skills, college admissions, as well as essential life skills, these valuable programs at schools across the country continue to be cut due to budgets. When cutting programs, schools remove those with the least ‘direct’ impact on learning, which many believe are art-related subjects. While not always apparent, cutting art and music programs from schools not only harms students, but also communities. Beyond taking away the opportunity to build important skills, schools without arts-focused programs leave students without an outlet for creativity and expression.
Tags: Education News • Featured • Op-Ed