Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 24, introduced by Senator Leyva, proclaims March 2019 as Arts Education Month in California. This resolution emphasizes the essential role of arts education—which encompasses dance, music, theatre, and visual arts—as a vital component of a comprehensive education for students from prekindergarten through grade 12. It seeks to promote awareness and support for quality arts education programs, urging all residents to engage with and advocate for initiatives that foster artistic expression among children and youth.
The resolution articulates how arts education not only enhances basic academic skills but also contributes to lifelong learning capacities that help prepare students for future success, independent of their backgrounds. It suggests that systematic arts instruction can improve cognitive and emotional development, cultural understanding, and readiness for collaborative and workplace interactions. Furthermore, it aligns with existing California educational policies, reinforcing the importance of arts as a subject area mandatory for high school pupils wishing to gain admission to public universities in the state.
Discussion surrounding SCR24 has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a broader recognition of the value of the arts in education. There is a shared sentiment among lawmakers and educational leaders that increasing focus and funding for arts programs can lead to significant benefits. The action taken to establish an Arts Education Month serves not only as a symbolic gesture but as a call to action for communities to elevate the importance of the arts within educational settings.
While there were no significant points of contention reported in the discussions related to SCR24, it is important to recognize that the resolution is primarily used as a vehicle to promote awareness rather than introducing specific policy changes or funding requirements. By proclaiming a specific month for arts education, the hope is to unify efforts across various stakeholders to bolster creative programs and inspire greater participation from the public and educational agencies. This highlights an ongoing commitment within California to ensure that arts education remains a crucial part of the educational landscape.