Arts ARE Education: National Advocacy Initiative for Local Action
Arts North Carolina is excited to be a partner in the new national advocacy campaign, Arts ARE Education, to support arts education in our schools at this crucial time. These easy to use tools and resources can empower every arts education advocate, from novice to veteran, at every level of government.
Arts ARE Education provides the tools you need to take action:
- Sign the Pledge to stand up for arts education with advocates across the country.
- Write your Legislators about the importance of arts education. (2-minute email tool)
- Pass a Resolution to make sure your local School Board protects Arts Education.
- Use the Toolkit to take action and learn about the school budget process.
As a result of the pandemic, arts education in school districts across the state are facing budget shortfalls that may lead to arts spending cuts, a remedial focus on other subjects to combat learning loss, and a need for personal protective equipment (PPE) that is specific to the arts classroom.
All PreK-12 students have the right to a high-quality school-based arts education in dance, music, theatre, and visual arts taught by certified professional arts educators in partnership with community arts providers. As a well-rounded subject area under federal education law, the Every Students Succeeds Act, music and the arts support the social and emotional well-being of students, foster a welcoming and safe school environment, and encourage inclusivity through multiple pathways for every child’s creative voice.
Arts ARE Education
Arts NC is working with state government and statewide arts education partners to ensure the successful implementation of the NC Arts Education Graduation Requirement. We also continue to provide advocacy training and resources to support comprehensive arts education.
Now is the time for action at the local level to insure equitable access to quality arts education for every student in North Carolina.