Why We Do It

Arts education makes a tremendous impact on the developmental growth of all children and has proven to help “level the learning field” across socio-economic boundaries. Our work is based on studies that demonstrate that, in addition to their intrinsic value as forms of human expression, the arts help our students to:

•    develop self-confidence, responsibility, security, and acceptance

•    gain respect and compassion for others

•    develop self-understanding, discipline and emotional control

•    increase use of language and improve communication skills

•    increase abilities to solve problems creatively and independently

•    foster curiosity, engagement, and enthusiasm for learning

A growing body of research points to the potential for arts education to enhance student performance in other subject areas as well. In addition to the importance of the arts being included as a core subject students should know, there is an emerging consensus that the arts are effective in teaching the skills and inculcating the attributes necessary for effectiveness in complex 21st century life and work settings. These include creativity, innovation, critical thinking, problem solving, effective communication and collaboration.