It is not surprising that at a meeting more than a year ago attended by some 70 New York City-based foundations, the issue of how the arts might play a greater role in transforming the city's schools came up for discussion. The grant complements the Annenberg Challenge project already under way in the city, uniting networks of restructuring schools in a Learning Zone. The Arts Education Challenge will be governed by an independent Center for Arts Education, with a board comprised of representatives from foundations, schools, arts, government, United Federation of Teachers, parents and arts-related industry constituencies. School services will be developed and provided by small partnerships of individual schools, arts organizations, universities and community organizations. Funds will be distributed upon highly accountable and measurable standards of responsibilities and proven outcomes.
Research demonstrates that arts education improves academic performance.
In middle and high school, arts education provides direct access from school to work through New York City's arts-related industries.