Should Northwest Reinstate Fine Arts Classes?

By The Northwest Press Editorial Staff          Published March 2, 2020

Last school year, NWCTA rolled back their choices for electives by removing fine arts classes from the curriculum, but how have these affected students who took part in those classes?

Many students feel that the decision comes with negative consequences for their excitement of the school day. Not having a fine arts class to look forward to negatively impacts their mood throughout the school day. A Northwest sophomore stated, “I was kind of upset when they said they were getting rid of the orchestra. It was honestly the only thing I looked forward to.” This is a reality for many students, not only at Northwest but all around CCSD. 

Students across campus miss the fine arts classes they took last year. Though they have all found a different elective to participate in, many students wish they had their first choice back. 

Freshman students who did orchestra in middle school have their own opinions about the change. Some took orchestra their previous year in middle school and even participated in Clark County School District Middle School Orchestra Festival. Young musicians looked forward to a new challenge in high school and playing with other musicians who have had more and different experiences. Other options outside of CCSD offer orchestra programs, but the majority of them cost money both to audition and enroll in the courses. 

The stress of being at a magnet school is already strenuous enough on the minds of students. Taking away one of their main sources of enjoyment during the school day is not a good way to increase morale throughout the school day. Students need more than a 30-minute break from difficult coursework. 

It is undeniable that fine arts also help to increase academic performance in schools as well. Though it is unknown whether it genuinely makes students more intelligent, or if it makes them more receptive to learning, many scientists theorize that there is a connection between relaxation and academic performance. A study funded by the Missouri Arts Council found that “greater arts education led to fewer disciplinary infractions and higher attendance, graduation rates and test scores.”

Other students feel that it causes too much-added stress, on top of their school work. Playing an instrument takes a lot of time and effort to understand and play. That added amount of work, on top of the work from magnet schools, makes it more difficult for students to keep up with their work, and their instrument at the same time. 

Overall, a large number of students at Northwest would consider taking a fine arts elective if it were to be offered in the imminent school years.