National Arts in Education Week

National Arts in Education Week is an annual celebration built on a simple idea: the arts are a core piece of a complete education. Designated by Congress in 2010 through House Resolution 275, the week draws the attention of elected officials and education decision-makers to this cause and supports equitable access to the arts for all students. This year’s theme is Every student, every community. 

Arts education is about much more than cultivating artistic talent or preparing to take the stage. It prepares students to contribute to the workforce and helps them build the skills employers look for in professionals. Research suggests that arts integration naturally leads students to interact with academic content in ways that promote long-term retention, particularly for those who struggle in conventional or non-arts-integrated classrooms (Hardiman et al.). Students in schools that offer arts-integrated learning are also more likely to achieve better academic outcomes, transfer knowledge from arts to other subjects, and show greater motivation and engagement in learning (Burnaford et al). 

Despite these benefits, access remains uneven. While 81% of schools reported sufficient student interest in arts education, only 55% had adequate funding, facilities, and materials (2024 National for the Arts School Pulse Panel Survey). There are many ways to help: attend a student performance, make a donation to your school's arts programs, or provide arts departments with the resources they need to succeed. 

Here at Maryvale, you can support the arts in a multitude of ways. Buy a ticket to Charlie Brown or James and the Giant Peach Jr., or volunteer to help with the 24-hour play festival! Learn more at Maryvale.com/arts. 

“You use a glass mirror to see your face; you use works of art to see your soul” - George Bernard Shaw (playwright) 

Learn more about National Arts in Education Week here.