Senator Cortese Recognizes Visual and Performing Arts Education Month
Today, Senator Dave Cortese (D-Silicon Valley) introduced SCR 80 on the Senate Floor to celebrate and recognize Visual and Performing Arts Education Month in California. SCR 80 passed with no opposition in the State Senate.
“As a former School Board member and parent of four children, I have seen firsthand how studying the arts in school can help a student develop their work ethic, study habits, time management skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities,” said Senator Cortese. “Arts education is linked to higher test scores across all subjects, as well as lower dropout rates.”
The resolution was supported by Create CA, that recently merged with the California Alliance for Arts Education, a statewide organization dedicated to promoting the arts education and creativity in our schools.
“Research shows that the arts are a critical link to student success. Arts education is linked to higher test scores across all subjects, as well as lower dropout rates. It fosters creativity and imagination, hallmarks of careers in the 21st century,” said Tom DeCaigny, Executive Director of Create CA, in a letter to the State Senate.
Research compiled by Create CA demonstrates that students with an arts education are:
· 5 times less likely to drop out of school
· 4 time more likely to be recognized for academic achievement
· 3 times more likely to be elected to class office
· 4 times more likely to receive a bachelor’s degree
· 2 times more likely to graduate from college
· And 30% more inclined to pursue a professional career[1]