When Arts Education Takes Center Stage

Over the past 5 years as executive director for the arts for Boston’s public schools, classically trained mezzo-soprano Myran Parker-Brass has worked to bring top-notch arts instruction to every child in the district. Since she assumed leadership, the number of students who are learning theater, dance, music, and visual arts during the school day has dramatically increased. The district has also expanded partnerships with local nonprofits, and upped its investment in arts education from $17 million to $26 million annually. Education Week reporter Liana Heitin first wrote about Parker-Brass when she was selected as a 2016 Leader To Learn From. Correspondent Lisa Stark reported for the PBS NewsHour on how Parker-Brass has helped changed minds across the district and beyond about the value of arts education.