Some expanded-learning-time schools are now using their longer school days not just for additional instruction in mathematics, reading, and other core subjects, but for arts education, according to a report released last week by the Boston-based National Center on Time & Learning.
The report, which received support from the Wallace Foundation, profiles five schools that serve mostly low-income students. The schools prioritized arts education when they redesigned their schedules.
In addition to extra time for the arts, appropriate staffing and resources have been dedicated accordingly, the report says, as the schools see the arts as valuable to improving student engagement in school as well as achievement in other subjects.
(The Wallace Foundation also helps support coverage of arts education and expanded learning time in Education Week.)