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The Arts Are Not Extra

Every September, communities across the country pause to celebrate something we believe in all year long: that the arts are an essential part of a child's education. It's called Arts in Education Week, and this year it runs September 13–19.

If you've ever watched a shy kid come alive with a drum in their hands, or seen a student see themselves in a story for the first time, you already understand why this week exists.

The case is simple, and it's backed by everything we see in classrooms. The arts help students develop real artistic skill, understand perspectives different from their own, build connection with one another, and find their voice. Along the way, they build the durable skills that carry through a whole life: creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, communication, resilience, and critical thinking.

The arts are not extra. They are an essential part of a well-rounded education.