They must be arts literate. Arts literacy is the skills and knowledge students develop learning to create, perform, and respond to works of art. Active participation and learning in the arts also improves overall academic achievement, socialization, and preparation for college and the workforce.
Public schools have the responsibility for providing a complete education for all children.
A child's education is not complete unless it includes the arts. In 1994, Congress broke new ground by including in federal law recognition of the arts as a core element of a substantive curriculum. As record numbers of children enter America's public schools, we urge Congress to approve authorization and appropriation legislation that will ensure a place for arts education in all USED elementary and secondary education programs. Through specialized programs and national initiatives, the U.S. Department of Education assists schools and communities in delivering high-quality learning opportunities in, through, and about the arts for children nationwide. Strengthen the learning environment for students by using the arts to improve academic achievement.