While it’s true that STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects have long been deemed central for the development of essential logic and critical-thinking skills in children and teens, the acronym has also recently gained an “A”: arts. Classes that engage with students’ creativity, previously disappearing from high school curricula, are now being touted by experts as another important pillar of education.
Of course, for arts teachers, this shouldn’t come as a surprise. High school art educators guide students in developing not only technical skills but also emotional awareness, critical thinking and personal voice. With Avila University’s online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Art, Music or Physical Education K–12, educators are equipped to meet this challenge head-on, using arts education as a transformative tool for youth.
The Importance of Arts Education
Arts educators have always had a hard time grading student success – unlike several math and science subjects, arts, literature and music are not always exact and don’t always fall into the boxes of “good,” “bad,” “right” or “wrong.” When students enter a classroom where their creativity is allowed to flourish, they begin to develop their own sense of identity, taste and worldview.
For teenagers who are still figuring out who they are, that opportunity is invaluable. Research from the National Endowment for the Arts shows that students who complete art courses are more likely to stay engaged in school and envision a future for themselves beyond it. In that sense, art education doesn’t just help students express themselves — it helps them see themselves. Several other studies carried out on the subject – namely, from the Brookings Institution and Nature, also point to the fact that “arts education is closely linked with positive academic outcomes and social and emotional development.”
In these creative spaces, students learn how to manage frustration when a drawing doesn’t turn out the way they imagined. They learn to give and receive feedback without it becoming personal. They start to see themselves as capable of turning ideas into something tangible — something that others can see, understand and feel. These moments of reflection and resilience translate directly into life skills that support emotional health and interpersonal relationships.
Art Curriculum for High School Students
While most high schools tend to forego arts education in favor of preparation for standardized tests, art curricula are still very well-crafted to complement a student’s skill set. Based on the National Visual Arts Standards, students are expected to engage in the full artistic process — creating, presenting, responding and connecting.
Lessons might include analyzing portraiture, creating public art inspired by community issues, or exploring animation techniques using digital tools. The goal is not just skill-building, but fostering visual literacy and a sense of agency. For those who decide to pursue artistic degrees, it’s also possible to focus on building portfolios.
Graduates of Avila University’s MAT in Art, Music or Physical Education K–12 are fully equipped to build a nuanced arts curriculum for high school students. The program emphasizes holistic development and innovative instructional strategies, enabling teachers to create dynamic learning environments that foster creativity, movement and expression.
The Role of High School Art Teachers
High school art teachers are more than instructors – they’re mentors, cultural interpreters and advocates. They often play a crucial role in identifying students’ strengths and encouraging them to surpass their self-imposed limitations. In a society increasingly shaped by visual culture and digital media, their instruction is vital for preparing students to analyze, critique and create meaning through images.
Choosing an art certification means engaging with teenagers in a very different way than all other teachers. Avila University’s MAT in Art, Music or Physical Education K–12 prepares educators for this multifaceted role. Courses are designed to blend theoretical foundations with hands-on application, emphasizing culturally responsive teaching and developmental psychology. Graduates are ready to lead classrooms where art becomes a catalyst for growth and understanding, helping students find their voice through painting, photography, music or anything their hearts desire.
Learn more about Avila University’s Master of Arts in Teaching – Art, Music or Physical Education K–12.
