Five Reasons Why an Arts Focus Matters
EDUCATION FOR LIFE
Exposure to art, dance, film, music, and theater helps students see the world more clearly. Educators must keep asking the question: How do arts address the overall impact of education?
The arts have been entrusted to us by generations before; it is our duty and obligation to pass that trust and legacy on to our students.
The arts must be practiced and celebrated every day.
Through the arts, students learn patience, tolerance, acceptance, respect, and compassion. Art promotes a civility in and out of the classrooms and, ultimately, nourishes the spirit and soul.
ADMISSION
As parents begin to understand how the arts may benefit and influence their children’s educational path to success, they will seek out independent schools that include outstanding and progressive art programs. With increased school choices and competition, curricula that includes outstanding arts programs can give an edge to admission offices as they reach out as many families as possible.
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COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE
Vibrant arts departments and arts centers can attract some of the finest students, both artistically and academically.
The NAIS Commission on Accreditation’s 2009 “A 21st Century Imperative – A Guide to Becoming a School of the Future” states, “Essential capacities for the 21st century include: analytical and creative thinking and problem-solving; complex communication; leadership and teamwork; digital and quantitative literacy; global perspective; adaptability, initiative, and risk-taking; and integrity and ethical decision making.”
All of these essential capacities are enhanced through the lens of the arts, putting the arts at the forefront of education.
GIVING
Success in the arts and beyond enriches a school.
Not surprisingly, research shows that alumni who participated in the arts as students are more likely to support the school in capital campaigns and annual funds.
The arts can make an independent school stand out
among its peer schools.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS
A strong arts program can improve and enhance community relations. Strong community relations, both with local officials and town or neighborhood residents, can help facility needs services such as
road maintenance, snow removal, and electric system repairs as well as streamline zoning and ordinance requests related to new
building and bulling improvement.
Weak community relations can prevent school from getting approval
to move on needed projects.