Six steps for improving arts education

As parents who care about the quality of our children's education, we need to make sure that our schools meet high standards in all fields of study, including the arts. Each state is guaranteed the freedom to set its own standards, but this should not mean freedom for mediocrity. We all want our youngsters to receive the best education possible in math, English, and the sciences. We cannot deny them the same opportunity to learn, enjoy, and excel through access to the arts.

1. Get Organized. Many PTA units have a cultural arts chair who is a good source of information and who can be a powerful ally in matters of reform. Work with this person and with other groups to build a network of dedicated volunteers committed to arts education.

2. Get the Facts. Obtain a copy of the National Standards for Arts Education and familiarize yourself with its contents.

3. Analyze Your Situation. Take stock of what your school's arts programs currently offer, and what they don't offer. Is your child being taught art, music, dance, or theater by qualified arts teachers? Determine if the content of each arts discipline is taught sequentially, each year building on what the child learned the year before, or whether each grade begins at "ground zero." Learn what (or who) should be added: for example, more (or different) teacher training and assistance. Learn whether your school lacks the necessary resources to accomplish the goals, and what can be done to get those resources.

4. Make a Plan. Don't assume your goal is impossible. Help is available from many quarters, including local arts organizations, charitable foundations, and universities. Also, the U.S. Department of Education has earmarked funds for teacher training and other types of assistance.

5. Educate for Action. Take your case to the public. Have volunteers write letters or send postcards to decision makers telling them why the arts in general and your plan in particular is important for education. Speak to your principal about strengthening arts education. Be a voice for arts literacy before community and civic groups.

6. Be Persistent. Find out what the objections to high-quality arts education are in your community and respond to them. You may not carry the day on your first try, but don't give up.
 
Kathleen Welling was a music teacher and choral director in Colorado for several years before joining the Music Educators National Conference as director of outreach and special programs.