Why the Arts?

“The arts are not a frill. The arts are a response to our individuality and our nature, and help to shape our identity.”
— Dr. Shirley Brice Heath, Stanford University

The arts are essential to the intellectual, emotional, and social development of young people. Far from being extracurricular or optional, the arts are a foundational part of a well-rounded education. They play a central role in shaping identity, building empathy, and driving academic success. Decades of research show that access to quality arts education significantly improves student performance across a wide range of indicators—including literacy, cognitive development, attendance, and college readiness.

Academic and Developmental Impact

Improved Academic Performance

According to the Arts Education Partnership, students with high levels of arts engagement are:

• 4 times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement,

• 3 times more likely to win awards for school attendance,

• And more likely to participate in math and science fairs.

These findings reflect how the arts increase student motivation, sharpen focus, and develop critical thinking skills that translate across subjects.

Literacy and Language Development

Arts education—especially in disciplines such as theater, music, and visual arts—has a measurable impact on literacy:

• Drama instruction improves story comprehension, vocabulary, and public speaking confidence.

• Music enhances auditory discrimination and phonological awareness, which are key pre-reading skills.

• Visual arts foster the interpretation of symbols and imagery, encouraging analytical and narrative thinking vital for reading and writing.

The National Endowment for the Arts has found that students who participate in arts programs read more frequently for pleasure and demonstrate stronger writing skills and verbal expression.

Brain Development and Executive Function

Neuroscientific research confirms that engaging in creative processes activates multiple areas of the brain. Artistic practice strengthens:

• Memory retention,

• Emotional regulation,

• Attention control,

• And problem-solving abilities.

These executive functions are directly linked to academic achievement and lifelong learning capabilities.

Equity, Empowerment, and Social-Emotional Learning

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”
— Pablo Picasso

For students in underserved communities, the arts provide equitable access to transformative learning experiences. Arts education creates safe, inclusive environments where students can:

• Discover and express their identity,

• Build confidence and self-esteem,

• Develop empathy through collaboration and performance,

• And gain a voice in both classroom and community contexts.

Research from the University of Chicago Consortium (2019) emphasizes that the arts uniquely support social-emotional learning (SEL)—skills like perseverance, emotional awareness, and interpersonal communication—which are essential for success in both school and life.

College and Career Readiness

Involvement in the arts correlates with increased college enrollment and career aspirations. The skills developed through arts education—such as creative problem-solving, adaptability, collaboration, and innovation—are precisely those in demand across 21st-century industries. From technology and healthcare to media and entrepreneurship, employers are seeking individuals who think critically and communicate effectively—skills that are rooted in arts training.

Conclusion: An Investment in the Whole Child

Arts education is not a luxury—it is a necessity. It enhances academic performance, supports literacy, builds life skills, and fosters resilience. By investing in arts programs, we are not only nurturing future artists—we are cultivating stronger students, engaged citizens, and innovative leaders.