Thursday, October 31, 2013

How You Can Cut Art Programs

Have elementary school classroom teachers instruct students in the arts along with academic courses.


Although cutting art programs can be a money-saver for schools, it comes with severe costs if not executed properly. Art programs stimulate critical thinking and cognitive skills in children, as well as improving memory and self-confidence. Furthermore, art programs are popular, as shown by a 2001 Americans for the Arts public opinion survey in which 89 percent of adults said that they believed schools should find the money to keep art in the curriculum. How can schools cut these programs without ruffling the feathers of parents or robbing students of a well-rounded education?


Instructions


1. Cut back on the programs instead of eliminating them entirely, if possible. Alternate music and art every other day, week or quarter. Push back the year that students are allowed to begin band or orchestra -- if students currently can join the band starting in fourth grade, allow them to start in fifth grade, instead. Make band and orchestra after-school activities instead of academic classes.


2. Require elementary school teachers to teach art and music in the classroom along with academic subjects. Give them professional development courses in fine arts instruction to facilitate this. This allows students to learn music and art at the same rate as before, although their teachers will be less qualified in that specific subject.


3. Encourage teachers to use the arts in class projects and assessments. Make sure that at least one project per quarter incorporates music, art or drama. Include this on teacher evaluations to ensure that they include the arts in their classes.


4. Incorporate a field trip to an art museum, concert or play into the school year. This will allow students to experience the arts without a full-time art teacher. Although field trips cost money, they are less expensive than maintaining an art program.








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