Arts Education Funding: Is it Essential for the Youth?
ART: Abigail Eckman displays her works during the IB Art Exhibition. (Eagle Talon Archive)
For young people whose talents lie in the arts, opportunity is often the major factor disrupting the ability to create in education. Is it therefore being suggested that the arts lack intellectual esteem or real-world use?
THEATRE: Camille Burks receives an all-star cast award and Aaron Glover receives Best Supporting Actor at a thespian competition. (Eagle Talon Archive)
In our fast-paced world, a well-rounded education is more important than ever. Among all the core subjects, arts education often gets cut when budgets are tight. However, the value of arts education for young people goes way beyond the classroom, as it helps them to develop skills they will use for the rest of their lives, impacting their logical development, social skills, and overall well-being and self-expression.
When students get into the arts, they're not just learning a hobby, they're also boosting their critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. For example, learning to play an instrument isn't just about hitting the right notes, it's also about understanding rhythms and patterns, which could help develop certain math skills. Not only does it help with practical skills, but the arts also help students grow socially and emotionally. When part of a team, like a school play or band, students learn teamwork, empathy, and to bounce back from setbacks. They also learn to take constructive criticism, which can help them in the workplace later in life. These experiences help them see things from different perspectives and build a sense of community and belonging, which is important during years of maturing.
Another major benefit of arts education is self-expression. It allows students to explore who they are and what they enjoy while also expressing their feelings and building confidence. For many young people, the arts are considered a safe place to escape daily pressures and find their voice outside other subjects. Through the arts, they can find new ways to communicate and connect with others and themselves.
BAND: The band performs during the annual Holiday Concert. (Jordan Huser / Eagle Talon)
Despite all these benefits, unfortunately, art programs are often the first to get cut when there is a lack of school budgets. Cutting these programs means students miss chances to discover their passions and develop important life skills. That's why it's so important to push for more funding for arts education. Funding for arts education guarantees all students have access to valuable experiences, no matter where they come from or how much money their school has.
Paxon featured at November board meeting and activities. (Eagle Talon Archive)
In the end, arts education isn't just "nice to have," it's essential. It plays a huge role in helping young people's development. Investing in programs that revolve around the arts is actually about investing in the future of the youth, giving them the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a complex world while being able to be themselves. Funding for these programs must be prioritized to keep the arts and young people's dreams and opportunities alive.