Delaware public schools provide a comprehensive, standards-aligned visual and performing arts education system that encompasses dance, music, theater, media art, and visual art, fostering creativity and self-expression among its students. The state recognizes the arts as an integral component of a well-rounded education, contributing significantly to the development of the whole child.
In schools across Delaware, students engage in a rich tapestry of artistic experiences, from learning the intricacies of dance choreography and musical composition to honing their skills in theater performance and visual arts creation. This holistic approach to arts education not only nurtures individual talents but also promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration – essential skills for success in any academic or professional pursuit. The arts play a pivotal role in enhancing cultural competence and fostering an appreciation for diversity, preparing students for the opportunities within an interconnected global society.
Delaware’s commitment to arts education aligns with college and career readiness by instilling qualities such as discipline, perseverance, collaboration, and creativity, attributes highly valued in today’s dynamic and competitive job market. As students immerse themselves in the world of artistic expression, they not only cultivate a lifelong love for the arts but also develop a strong foundation for future academic achievements and professional success.
Standards
Creating, performing/presenting/producing, responding, connectingThe Delaware Arts Education Data Project
The Delaware Arts Education Data Project, a partnership creation between the Delaware Department of Education, Delaware Division of the Arts, and the Delaware Arts Alliance, highlights Delaware’s arts education data through a user-friendly, interactive dashboard. The dashboard is intended to promote meaningful dialogue around arts education across the state and to encourage equitable and data-driven decisions by schools, districts, educators, community members, and policymakers that support a well-rounded education for all Delaware students.
The data project displays high school course and enrollment data by fine arts discipline—dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and media arts/other—as well as by grade level, gender, and school demographics. Stakeholders can use the data to determine areas of strength as well as areas of need. By providing a variety of demographic lenses as well as various grain sizes by which to view the data—state, county, district, and school—the dashboard provides snapshots of fine arts education access and opportunities across Delaware.
Contact Us
Still have questions or comments? Please email Lauren Conrad or call the Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Development workgoup at (302) 735-4180.
