Why Arts Education Leads to a Productive Workforce

Does participation in the arts and arts education in the schools give future employees a 'leg up' in the workforce and should it remain a vital part of our school's curriculum? I have compiled a list of some companies (employers) that have an opinion.

"The rapidly evolving global economy demands a dynamic and creative workforce. The arts and its related businesses are responsible for billions of dollars in cultural exports for this country. It is imperative that we continue to support the arts and arts education both on the national and local levels. The strength of every democracy is measured by its commitment to the arts.”–Charles Segars, CEO of Ovation

 “We need people who think with the creative side of their brains—people who have played in a band, who have painted…it enhances symbiotic thinking capabilities, not always thinking in the same paradigm, learning how to kick-start a new idea, or how to get a job done better, less expensively.”–Annette Byrd, GlaxoSmithKline

“Arts education aids students in skills needed in the workplace: flexibility, the ability to solve problems and communicate, the ability to learn new skills, to be creative and innovative, and to strive for excellence.”– Joseph M. Calahan, Director of Cooperate Communications, Xerox Corporation 

“GE hires a lot of engineers. We want young people who can do more than add up a string of numbers and write a coherent sentence. They must be able to solve problems, communicate ideas and be sensitive to the world around them. Participation in the arts is one of the best ways to develop these abilities.”– Clifford V. Smith, President of the General Electric Foundation

The list goes on, but I think you see their opinion. What's yours?

The importance of pursuing arts education is not just for pleasure or entertainment. The 'Arts" help  or learning to think creatively, provide society with a more productive workforce.