Maryland is facing tough budget choices again, and arts education is often the first to go. This is a big mistake. Arts programs do more than just teach students how to paint or play music. They help students grow in confidence and discover their true potential.

When schools cut arts funding, they are not just removing fun classes. They are risking the future of Maryland's workforce. Employers in tech, science, and healthcare all agree that problem-solving, communication, and creativity are key skills. These skills are often developed in arts programs.

Yet, when budgets get tight, arts programs are often the first to be cut. This is a problem because these programs are crucial for preparing students for the future. According to the World Economic Forum, creative thinking is one of the most in-demand skills for the future of work. By cutting arts programs, schools are not just losing electives; they are losing a vital tool for shaping innovative thinkers.

Arts programs also play a big role in student success. At the Baltimore School for the Arts, students excel in academics and attendance. This shows that arts education can drive student engagement and achievement. When arts programs disappear, schools lose one of their most effective tools for improving outcomes.

Budget cuts also widen equity gaps, especially in Baltimore. Programs like TWIGS provide free arts education to young students, giving them confidence and a sense of possibility. These programs are often the first to lose funding, which harms the students who need them the most.

Arts schools are not just a luxury; they are economic engines. Schools like the Baltimore School for the Arts produce graduates who succeed in various industries. By investing in arts education, Maryland can strengthen its economic competitiveness and prepare students for the jobs of the future.

As leaders prepare for the next budget cycle, they should protect arts programs from disproportionate cuts. Arts education is not optional; it is foundational. The stakes are too high to ignore.

The Price of Losing Arts in Schools

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