Position Statement on Indiana State Board of Education Graduation Requirement Proposal
The Indiana State Board of Education’s new high school graduation requirements proposal which removes the arts as an explicit graduation requirement poses a significant threat to the comprehensive educational experience of our students. The arts are not merely an elective; they are an essential pillar of a well-rounded education that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.
Engagement in the arts enhances cognitive skills and enriches academic performance. Research has consistently shown that students involved in arts education excel not only in artistic endeavors but also in core subjects. A study by the Arts Education Partnership found that students who participate in arts education programs score higher on standardized tests compared to their peers who do not engage in the arts. Specifically, students involved in music and visual arts achieved better outcomes in reading and math, illustrating the cross-disciplinary benefits of arts education.
Removing the arts from our graduation requirements would undermine the development of critical skills necessary for success in the 21st century. The arts cultivate collaboration, discipline, and innovative thinking—skills that are vital in today’s workforce. Furthermore, involvement in the arts is linked to increased student engagement and improved mental health, providing a crucial outlet for self-expression and emotional resilience.
Beyond academic performance, the arts play a pivotal role in fostering cultural awareness and community engagement. They provide students with opportunities to explore their identities, appreciate diverse perspectives, and connect with their communities. This is especially important in a state as diverse as Indiana, where the arts serve as a unifying force that celebrates our shared heritage and promotes inclusivity.
In light of these compelling reasons, we urge the Indiana Board of Education to reconsider the removal of the arts as a graduation requirement. Preserving the arts in our educational system is not merely about maintaining a curriculum; it is about nurturing the full potential of every student, equipping them with the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in a complex and rapidly changing world. Let us advocate for a future where the arts remain a fundamental component of Indiana’s educational landscape, enriching the lives of all students and the communities they inhabit.