Advocacy to Restore & Retain Arts Education in State H.S. Diploma Requirements
The Indiana State Board of Education is adopting new diploma standards, however, arts along with world languages and CTE have been removed, raising concerns about the future of arts education, Indiana’s overall talent pipeline, and our sector viability including longer-term economic and quality of life impacts.
This change will lead to diminished or eliminated arts programs within the next three years, especially in smaller and under-resourced districts, where principals have already stated, “If it’s not required, we won’t have it.” We have a short window to appeal to the IN Board of Education to retain arts education as eligible electives and work-based learning experiences in their new diploma requirements.
Take Action
Attend the next State Board of Education meeting on Wed., Oct. 2 at 9 am in the Indiana Government Building South (302 W. Washington Street Indianapolis, IN, 46204). Arts advocates (board, staff, parents, youth) are encouraged to attend and make their voices heard. They will be hearing public comments (plan on 2 minutes if you want to testify).