VSA arts is a nonprofit organization that creates learning opportunities through the arts for people with disabilities. We believe that the arts are an avenue to learning and a universal language that all of us can understand.
Many people still see the arts as an extra.
However, the world is beginning to discover that the arts provide critical tools for learning in all academic disciplines, thus helping young people become better students today, and better employees tomorrow. According to the College Entrance Examination Board, students who participate in the arts score nearly 100 points higher on the SAT than students who don't. In addition, the more years students participate in the arts, the higher their SAT scores. Recent studies show that students who participate in school music programs score higher in reading, mathematics, language, and overall achievement test scores. Research summaries show that a complete arts education, including dance, music and drama, contributes to improved academic performance for students with disabilities.