With all the recent push for the United States to catch up to other nations academically, there has been an increased focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The STEM Education Coalition states that these fields must be made a priority, and Obama’s FY2014 budget has worked to reorganize federal education programs related to these fields.
But during a time when public schools are being forced to make cuts to their own budgets, a vital part of the curriculum is being overlooked or even cut out: music. According to a recent study by the National Endowment, students from low income families that had music rich education in schools were three times as likely to earn a B.A. than those that did not.
In addition, music programs can create an outlet for inner city kids and create for them a more positive view of school and academics in general. This nation can’t create a new generation of STEM workers if they don’t finish their education, and music is a way to encourage completion of studies.
Cutting out music programs doesn’t solve anything, just creates a bigger issue. Quality education means greater opportunity, which prepares students for today’s competitive workplace.