Strengthening The Arts In California Schools

Arts education is a fundamental obligation of the public schools. Students grow in unique and critical ways by experiencing the arts through practice. The study of the heritage of the arts in their intellectual, critical, and aesthetic dimensions enhances student perspectives. Mankind's artistic achievements are the heritage of every child and an education system is obliged to transmit that heritage from generation to generation. This report presents the recommendations of California's 24 member Arts Education Advisory Committee on ways to improve arts education in the state's public schools. Ten recommendations are made in the areas of: (1) policy; (2) curriculum; (3) staff development; (4) resources; (5) assessment; (6) collaboration; (7) teacher training; (8) leadership; (9) research; and (10) advocacy. An appendix containing a sample listing of arts programs available to California schools is included. (DB)