Should Art Education Be Required

Should Art Education be Required?

"Art education refers to the disciplines of music, dance, theatre, and visual arts“ according to Bob Bryant, the Director of Fine Arts at the Katy Independent School District. The requirements that follow these classes have been a topic of discussion primarily within the last decade. Students across the United States have questioned this system and whether or not such classes should remain mandatory in high school. A majority of people state that art classes have numerous benefits. On the other hand, however, some argue that art courses take time away from students who should devote their focus on courses they often struggle with (Chavis). Art education shall remain a requirement in high school because it enhances educational skills, improves emotional awareness and stress management, and prepares students to face events where art can improve performance. Art education aids a student’s ability to manage stress as well as improve emotional awareness. Stress and lack of mental understanding originates directly from core classes, which require intense mental concentration and verbal understanding. Art courses can relieve students

A variety of studies have been performed to show how integrated this form of education has become. Fran Smith, Director of Theatre in Charlottesville, VA, states: “...years of research show that [art education] 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.” The arts allow students to gather knowledge and skills from core classes to better improve their performance on standardized tests. Art education improves students both mentally and through educational values by giving students the opportunity to learn and