Not Just an “Extra”: Art at the Core of Instruction
As you know… I’ve been thinking a lot about music and arts education. Lately, I’ve been focused a lot on instrumental music. But visual art is also important. I came across a great article on the KQED website discussing the importance of robust art education in our schools.
Not Just Extra Art Core Instruction : How Integrating Arts Into Other Subjects Makes Learning Come Alive
By Katrina Schwartz

“Art has long been recognized as an important part of a well-rounded education — but when it comes down to setting budget priorities, the arts rarely rise to the top. Many public schools saw their visual, performing and musical arts programs cut completely during the last recession, despite the many studies showing that exposure to the arts can help with academics too. A few schools are taking the research to heart, weaving the arts into everything they do and finding that the approach not only boosts academic achievement but also promotes creativity, self-confidence and school pride.”