Establishes report on arts and music education in elementary and secondary schools to study and make recommendations on the curriculum and time spent on arts and music education

1 Co-sponsor

• José M. Serrano

Title of bill

An act to establish a report on arts and music education in elementary and secondary schools; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof

Purpose or general idea of bill

To establish a report on arts and music education in elementary and secondary schools for students and make recommendations on the curriculum and time spent on arts and music education

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1: The NYS Commissioner of Education is required to create a procedure in which school districts report to the State Education Department on compliance with current arts instruction requirements including visual arts, music, dance and theater as required by law and regulation in elementary and secondary public schools. This is a onetime requirement so that SED can prepare its report on music and arts education. The commissioner shall report to the Governor and Legislature on or before July 1, 2018 regarding the findings.

Section 2: Establishes the effective date.

Justification

Based on data reports from the New York City Department of Education, art programs diminish as students get older. About 90% of elementary school students have access to at least three of the four art disciplines (visual arts, music, dance, and theater), while 50% of middle and only about 30% of high school students have the same access available. These reduced levels of art in the upper grades means less variety for older students, and therefore fewer reasons or motivations to participate in such arts programs and in other school activities in general.

Current research demonstrates that integrating the arts into general education throughout the learning process, significantly enhances students' cognitive, personal, and social abilities. Quality arts education is central to a complete education and it is required by state law. The arts promote the health and well-being of children, including academic and personal growth, critical thinking and analytical skills, and the motivation to stay in school and excel by encouraging expression, creativity, innovative thinking, and cooperative learning experiences. A quality arts education is a proven tool to open doors of opportunity through the development of analytical and problem-solving skills that are indispensable in the 21st century workforce.

Arts in Education programs have long been valued learning experiences in New York State schools. The State's arts and cultural institutions, including museums, libraries, historical sites, performing arts companies, and teaching artists are crucial in supporting and enriching New York's school curriculum. Studies by the Guggenheim Museum, National Art Education Association, and The Center for Arts Education have proven that students who are engaged in the arts develop a more complete understanding of personal identity, appreciation for culture, and connection with community. Furthermore, art education creates an environment where excitement, possibility, discovery, and imagination can thrive.

Studies also indicate that art education can have a profound effect on students with special needs. They are able to build confidence, develop social and motor skills, as well as become more self-aware. The difference art can make in the life of a special needs child is immeasurable, and for this reason should be championed at every opportunity.

Prior legislative history

New bill.

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.