What is the Seal?
The State Seal of Arts Proficiency is awarded to Arizona high school graduates who complete an arts pathway. The diploma seal is meant to recognize mastery of Arizona arts education standards, cultivate artistic literacy and skills for 21st century success, promote increased access to well-rounded, high quality arts education, and prepare students for college and career readiness including active participation in the creative industries sector.
Earning the Seal is a testament to student's talents, dedication, and mastery of the Arts, which further highlight the quality of PVSchools’ programs, courses, teachers and schools.
History of the Seal
The State Seal of Arts Proficiency, or SB1111, was signed into law by Governor Doug Ducey on May 14, 2019. SB1111 had bipartisan support and was a grassroots effort from Arizona Education Advocates from across the state. Senator Paul Boyer served as the Bill’s sponsor.
“Art programs are an essential part of a well-rounded education system, not just electives that are nice for students to have. Research has proven that a balanced, comprehensive and sequential program of study in the arts allows Arizona’s students to learn and practice 21st century skills and behaviors that improve critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and creative problem solving. I commend the legislature for passing SB111, which recognizes the superb work accomplished by students across Arizona.”
~Kathy Hoffman, Superintendent of Public Instruction (2019-2023)
To read more about the Arizona Department of Education Seal of Arts Proficiency, please see the following ADE resources:
https://www.azed.gov/artseducation/arizona-state-seal-of-arts-proficiency
https://www.azed.gov/standards-practices/welcome-diploma-seals