National Arts in Education Week is September 11 – 17, 2016!

National Arts in Education Week is September 11 – 17, 2016. The arts are an essential part of a complete education, no matter if it happens in the home, school, or community. Students of all ages—from kindergarten to college to creative aging programs—benefit from artistic learning, innovative thinking, and creativity. Celebrating National Arts in Education Week is a way to recognize this impact and share the message with friends, family, and communities.

National Arts in Education Week is a national celebration recognizing the transformative power of the arts in education. Designated by Congress in 2010 through House Resolution 275, the celebration is designated to bring attention to this cause for elected officials and educational decision makers across the country and to support equitable access to the arts for all students.

National Arts in Education Week takes place annually during the week beginning with the second Sunday of September. This year it falls on September 11 – 17, 2016. Save the date for future celebrations: September 17 – 23, 2017; September 16 – 22, 2018; September 8 – 14, 2019; September 13 – 19, 2020.

How can I participate in the celebration?


Host or attend events. Every year, communities, schools, arts centers, and education programs host celebrations in their communities across the country. Whether a performance, exhibit, class or open house, local celebrations are the best way to bring attention to the cause of arts education.

Advocate. Advocacy is a key element to spreading the word about arts education. The ability to tell stories, cite facts, and get your local decision makers on board with your mission is a valuable asset for spreading the word.

Use social media. Join in the national celebration on social media. Let your circle of colleagues, friends and family know you care and bring them into the greater movement! RSVP to our National Arts in Education Week Facebook event (be sure to invite your Facebook friends, too!) and connect with fellow arts ed advocates from around the country.

  • During #ArtsEdWeek, be sure to follow be sure to engage with this year’s designated campaign, #BecauseOfArtsEd. This is your chance to tell your own personal story of the transformative power of the arts in education on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
  • Post on Facebook. Tell the world your #BecauseOfArtsEd story on Facebook. Let us know what you are doing now in work and life and how arts education has a positive impact with a photo. See more on Facebook.
  • Send a tweet.  Share your quick #BecauseOfArtsEd story on Twitter. Be sure to include an image or video along with #ArtsEdWeek. See more on Twitter.
  • Share a photo. Post your favorite arts education photo on Instagram along with your #BecauseOfArtsEd story about the impact of arts education on your life. Be sure to use #ArtsEdWeek. See more on Instagram
  • Be sure to check out the #BecauseOfArtsEd blog salon on ARTSblog starting on September 12.

Visit Americans for the Arts (AFTA) for more information on how to get started on how you, your organization, and your network can participate, partner and spread the word!