September 9th – 13th, 2024, is National Arts in Education Week! Join Americans for the Arts and Arts Services Inc. (ASI) in celebrating this nationwide event recognizing the transformative impact of the arts in our schools and beyond. This week, established by Congress in 2010, is a perfect time to advocate and highlight the power of the arts and advocate for equitable access for all students.
At ASI, we believe in the profound impact that arts education has on students’ lives. Research shows that students who participate in the arts are more likely to succeed academically and socially. Arts education helps students develop social-emotional skills and creativity, which are essential for coping with today’s mental health challenges. Additionally, 76% of Americans support funding for arts education and lifelong learning programs. We are committed to ensuring that every student in our community has access to high-quality arts education.
This week, Americans for the Arts is “Empowering Minds Through Creativity.” With arts education, students learn to approach problems from new angles, think outside the box, and express themselves in unique ways. These skills are essential for success in today’s rapidly changing world. At ASI, we echo this sentiment and strive to support initiatives that foster creativity and innovation in our schools. Let’s ensure every student has access to the arts so they can develop the creative skills that will empower them for life.
You can take action this National Arts in Education Week in 3 ways:
- Use Americans for the Arts social media toolkit to spread the word! Share their ready-to-use posts and impactful graphics on your platforms. Join the conversation with #ArtsEdWeek. Download the toolkit here. At ASI, we encourage our community to amplify these messages and showcase the importance of arts education in WNY.
- Reach elected officials by using their sample proclamation and email templates. Show your local representatives why arts education matters and how they can support it. Learn more here. ASI is dedicated to advocating for policies that support equitable access to arts education for all students in our region.
- Stay informed on the latest in arts education funding and policy. Understanding the current landscape of arts education funding and policy is crucial for effective advocacy. Visit Americans for the Arts’ policy and funding page to stay updated. ASI remains committed to providing our community with the resources and information needed to support arts education initiatives.
By participating in National Arts in Education Week, we can collectively highlight the importance of arts education and work towards a future where every student has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the arts. Join us in this celebration and advocacy effort to make a lasting impact on our schools and communities.
