ArtServe Michigan believes that every child in Michigan should have equal access to a comprehensive, balanced and sequential in-school program of instruction in the arts, taught by highly qualified teachers, designed to provide students of all ages with skills and knowledge in the arts in accordance with national and state standards. Our policy agenda, the latest research and an advocacy toolkit are available on ArtServe’s website.
Arts education conducted by Michigan nonprofits aligns with school programs to promote creative problem solving and build skills in design, arts and crafts. Training in arts and culture leads to more well-rounded understanding and nurtures talent in adults and children alike, critical abilities in our increasingly globally-connected world.
Across Michigan, nearly 2 million children had the opportunity to experience local history, enjoy live performances or try their hand at designing inventions – direct encounters possible only in the unique learning environments of the state’s historic attractions, arts and science centers, stages and concert halls and due to the talented people who bring them to life.
The number of school groups visiting arts and culture venues and attractions is measured separately from overall youth attendance, to track the relationships between them and schools. In tight economic times, many young people would not have the opportunity to benefit from the enrichment provided by arts and culture nonprofits except through group visits.
Many of Michigan’s nonprofit arts and cultural organizations provide experiences that strengthen and complement arts education during the school day. Arts education increases children’s motivation – students in arts classes are more likely to attend school - and deepens their ability to pay attention, such as when learning to play a musical instrument or draw. This education helps students beyond the immediate skills they learn – the College Board reports that from 1999 to 2009, arts students outperformed non-arts students on the SAT.
The average ticket price for children to attend the 211 organizations in 2009 was $6, while the average ticket price for adults was $18. Arts and culture nonprofits provide valuable services and entertainment, and by using other sources of funding to cover costs, they keep ticket prices affordable and programs accessible for all Michigan families and tourists.
