2009 State of the Arts Survey April 2009

In March and April of 2009 a cross section of art teachers throughout the

United States

were asked to share their views on the state of art education. The survey group spanned grade levels 0 through 8. 

Summary of Findings

Most respondents reported that the state of art education was about the same, a smaller number felt that art education was getting worse. A fortunate few reported that art education in their area had improved.

 

Not surprisingly a great majority reported that budget cuts and inadequate resources were the greatest challenge.  A large number cited lack of support by school administration and lack of interest by parents.

Technology and professional development were the areas where teachers felt resources were most sorely needed; most often they have been solving these problems on their own, although state art educator associations have helped.

Decreasing budgets and the shortage of time dedicated to art education were viewed as the most important issues to address. Following these were a call for more technology and professional development resources.

The survey found that fundraising is considered important by most teachers. PTO/PTA organizations were considered a help in this regard but many teachers must do their own fundraising.

Conclusion

It is encouraging that there is a growing recognition that art education is an essential part of a well round learning environment. Many organizations who support this premise are gaining ground. With the support of

Washington

in actions like President Obama's federal budget proposal to increase the National Endowment for the Arts’  budget by 4% there is room for optimism.

Yet there is much work to be done. We at Art Paper Scissors plan to initiate new programs to help address the many pressing issues and bring to our devoted the art teachers the support they so justly deserve.

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