Requires instruction in arts and music education to be incorporated into curriculums for all public school students

• Democratic63
• Republican42

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Rachel May says this is needed

While New York State Education Department regulations dictate arts and music education, it is not a statutory requirement. As a result, during times of fiscal difficulties, school districts may look to reduce arts and music classes in order to achieve budgetary savings regardless of the importance of these courses for child development. There have been numerous research studies similar to one released in 2012 by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) entitled The Arts and Achievement in At-Risk Youth: Findings from Four Longitudinal Studies that document measured academic success and future civic engagement of students, particularly those who are at-risk, when they actively partic- ipate in arts programming. Along with these types of successes, this study documented that at-risk students with an "in-depth arts involve- ment" had higher career aspirations and were more likely to pursue high- er education. Along with student engagement, music and arts programming offered in schools improves participation and aids in the development of critical thinking and creative problem solving. For many years, the national educational focus has been on "STEM"-Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Educational advocates are now realizing the importance of adding Arts to the discussion. STEAM education provides a more holistic approach that reflects the need for students to develop both creative and analytical skills. This legislation recognizes the importance of arts and music programs in public schools and will ensure that all of New York's school-aged chil- dren have equal access to these critical learning opportunities.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.