An education in the arts is not a privilege;  it is a right that must be granted to every child.  It is through art that we develop an understanding of ourselves and the place we hold on earth and in society.  It is through art that we may communicate and understand diverse cultures in a global society.  It is through art that we learn not only what it takes to be human, but what it takes to be humane.  It is through arts education that we offer our children the tools to be creative and courageous custodians of humanity.

Art is valuable for arts sake: sequential lessons in the arts (dance, drama/theatre, music and visual arts) teach children to be problem solving, creative and critical thinkers.  The creative process involves active learning, with requirements for analysis, reflection, integration and evaluation.  Schools that involve arts education reap superior academic results.

Integrated arts curriculum (arts in every classroom) levels the playing field and closes the gap between the majorities and the minorities, the wealthy and the impoverished, the "gifted" learners and the "learning disabled,"  the boys and the girls.  Integrated arts curriculum leaves no child behind, approaching multiple intelligences and allowing every child's strength an opportunity to emerge. Success becomes the norm and children become empowered.

The Alabama State Council on the Arts embraces arts education as an essential component of education in the State Of Alabama.

The Objectives of the Arts in Education program are: