"Research shows that a program of arts education taught by qualified teachers improves school achievement and develops skills in creative problem-solving and group dynamics that students will need for success in the 21st century.” - Richard A. Disharoon, Arts Education in Maryland Schools Alliance

Baltimore Sun 1/22/08

Narrowing the curriculum in elementary school deprives students of an important opportunity to develop broad vocabulary and background knowledge necessary for strong reading comprehension later on. That lack of opportunity results in several negative consequences as students move into upper elementary school and secondary grades.
Source: The Hidden Costs of Narrowing the Curriculum, The Center for Comprehensive School Reform and Improvement

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Updated: 6/30/08

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Home > Arts Education Month> talking points

Talking Points for Arts Education

Talking points help you to make your case with flair. They keep you on track so that you stay “on message” and are consistent. Effective advocates for any cause amplify their reach by getting their peers to use them and make them stick. Here are some talking points and the target audiences they’re intended for:

For Parents
Parents drive change in schools and are among the most active voices and contributors to the cause of increased arts education in public schools. Here are talking points that resonate with parents:

• Arts experiences enrich learning and enhance the quality of education for all students.
• All children need a well-rounded education to prepare for the future and the arts are essential for developing young people.
• Schools need to help students tap into their creativity and learn to express themselves, and the arts are the best way to make this happen.

For school-based educators, curriculum experts and classroom teachers
This audience should push for more arts education internally within schools and school districts. They can try to find opportunities among other school priorities to put arts education front and center. Here are some talking points you can use to start the conversation:

• Arts education is proven to develop well-rounded students with critical thinking-skills.
• Teachers can use the arts to address individual learning needs so that every child can learn and thrive.
• Learning in the arts contributes to better school attendance and student behavior.

For business leaders
Business leaders should support arts education to develop students to be successful in school and in careers. Learning in and through the arts promotes a skilled creative workforce that can compete in the 21st century.

• A comprehensive arts education fosters the creativity and innovation needed to create a more competitive workforce.
• Today’s students who are learning through the arts will become tomorrow’s workforce of creative individuals and support the American economy.
• Business leaders and analysts tell us that imagination, innovation and creativity are the primary skills that will keep America competitive in the global economy. The arts, which are crucial to developing these skills, must be restored to schools.

Click here for general talking points

Click here for more definitions of target audiences

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