Pablo Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” In high school, his quote takes on particular relevance. Students must balance academics, activities, and the pressure to plan for their future. In the midst of it all, it is easy to overlook the vital role of the arts. At Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, we maintain an unwavering dedication to the arts and a commitment to artistic excellence. Read on to explore five reasons why art is essential to a well-rounded education.
Develops Social, Emotional, and Interpersonal Skills
Arts education supports students’ social and emotional growth at every grade level. Supporting this growth is one of the core tenets of arts education, as highlighted by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. When students participate in arts programs, they hone communication skills as they interact with peers in a constructive and creative manner. Through teamwork and production, they have an opportunity to share unique perspectives, forming and refining their voices. Artistic works also offer young adults new ways to reflect on themselves and their place in the world, helping them explore and define their roles beyond the classroom.
Broadens Understanding of Cultures and Histories
Works of art are powerful links to our past, connecting humanity to experiences and events from long ago. History and culture are deeply intertwined. When students participate in the performing arts, such as staging a Shakespearean play or working on an art project, they do not just study facts; they engage with the cultural context behind them. Children explore their roots and traditions while also gaining insight into others’, expanding their horizons and deepening their understanding of the world around them. According to a UNESCO report, students who engage in arts education tend to achieve stronger academic and non-academic outcomes.
Fosters Critical Thinking
Art is often complex—layered with symbolism, technique, and meaning. Analyzing and interpreting works of art requires critical thinking that goes far beyond surface-level observation. When students engage with art, they activate a range of thinking skills: observing closely, questioning, reasoning, forming arguments, defending interpretations, and making connections. This thinking routine supports thoughtful learning and extends into other subjects, helping students approach topics in math, history, and science with greater depth and cognitive flexibility.
Helps Develop Valuable Life and Career Skills
Arts education fosters more than creativity. It builds essential skills that serve students well in life and future careers. Whether rehearsing for a performance in a school theater or collaborating on a group project, students practice leadership, teamwork, professional communication, and presentation skills. The process of planning, revising, and delivering artistic work also teaches discipline and time management.
Increases Engagement and Better Climate at Schools
Arts education invites students to take an active role in their learning. Rather than passively receiving information, they create, collaborate, and contribute to it. Students stay motivated, developing a stronger connection to school. Research shows that students involved in the arts attend classes more consistently and are more likely to find purpose in their daily learning. A student involved in a school theater, for example, works toward opening night with a clear goal in mind, building trust, accountability, and a shared sense of accomplishment with peers and teachers. These experiences contribute to a positive school climate where students feel seen, supported, and inspired.
At Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of artists, thinkers, and leaders. We are honored to offer students opportunities to explore their creative potential, develop critical thinking skills, and cultivate a deep appreciation for the arts. Does your student want to shine in the spotlights of our state-of-the-art Eleanor Dempsey Performing Arts Center (EDPAC)? Contact us today.
