SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS
CHANGE THE LANGUAGE
We often hear arts courses called “specials,” “resources,” or “electives” but the arts are CORE classes.
Arts credits are required to graduate and arts classes are required by law.
It is important that administrators, educators, and families use terminology that appropriately acknowledges that the arts are required.
By using language that diminishes the importance of arts education, we continue a culture that undervalues the arts as an essential component to human development, which is the status quo in many places.
We must be intentional about changing that culture through the language that educators, administrators, and families all use.
ARTS CLASSES
=
CORE CLASSES
ARTS EDUCATION IS A CIVIL RIGHT FOR MARYLAND PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS!
Arts education is required by law!
The Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR 13A.04.16) requires that school systems provide their students with classes and experiences in Dance, Media Arts, Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts.
Arts education is essential!
Students need the arts as part of a well-rounded education! Arts education develops creative problem-solving, critical thinking, language skills, and contributes to Social Emotional Learning (SEL). Students who participate in the arts have higher retention rates and perform higher academically.
Arts education is beneficial!
The arts contribute to students’ mental health and wellbeing (this is true for adults, too!). The arts offer students to find creative ways to express themselves, process their experiences, and take action to challenge injustice. In the face of trauma, the arts help us heal.