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Parents’ Guide to Arts Education in Public Schools – VAPA Guide

The California Education Code requires it, but what should students be receiving in arts education at each grade level? California State PTA – in partnership with Create CA – is pleased to launch the newly revised Parents’ Guide to Arts Education in California Public Schools.

This reader-friendly guide provides an overview of what children across the state should learn in the arts disciplines of dance, music, theatre and the visual arts by the end of each grade level.

The Parents’ Guide to the Visual and Performing Arts in California Public Schools was created with parents, guardians and families of students in the California public school system in mind. By using the guide, they show that all students – not just the talented – should have the opportunity to express their unique individuality through creating and learning in and through the arts.

“As a parent myself, I know for a fact that the arts matter. Arts education is so crucial to a well-rounded, comprehensive education for all students,” said former California State PTA President Dianna MacDonald. “I am proud to be a part of an organization that works hard to make sure parents’ voices are heard loud and clear in support of the arts.”

California State PTA has a long history of advocating for a complete education that includes the arts for every child. In 2017, California State PTA adopted the “Declaration of the Rights of All Students to Equity in Arts Learning” to reaffirm its commitment to a full curriculum that includes the arts.

PTA connects families, schools and communities and strives to positively impact the lives of all children and families. For more information on arts education efforts and to download the Parents’ Guide to Arts Education in California Public Schools, click here.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL GUIDE – English

DOWNLOAD THE FULL GUIDE – Spanish

DOWNLOAD THE FULL GUIDE – Chinese