Fulton considers adding more arts classes at two high schools
Fulton County school officials last week discussed plans to add three music technology courses at Centennial high school and three painting and drawing classes at Riverwood high school.
In recent years, many Georgia public schools have attempted to add more arts classes and arts-related activities to their curriculum, citing data that shows students in arts classes and programs perform better academically.
“I believe we are seeing a positive shift,” said Pamela Walker, executive director of ArtsNow, a non-profit that has been working with some Georgia public schools on helping teachers learn how to use the arts to educate students in math, science and other subjects.
However, a number of schools have cut arts classes and programs, largely citing a lack of money.
Fulton County launched arts magnet programs at two high schools – Tri-Cities and North Springs Charter – in 1990. A school district spokeswoman said Fulton currently has no plans to add any arts-themed schools, but said the district is working on a plan to add more choice programs for schools.
To read our report about the state of arts programs in Georgia, click here
About the Author
Eric Stirgus joined The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in 2001. He is the newsroom's education editor. Born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., Eric is active in the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists and the Education Writers Association and enjoys mentoring aspiring journalists.
