Arts Education in Jeopardy

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic shut down the world and arts education! Performing arts classes across the world were labeled as deadly activities and banned for in-person instruction and experiences in schools and communities for months. Strict mandates were enforced for masking students and social distancing. Restrictions for talking, singing, playing instruments, dancing, touching, ventilation, sharing equipment and resources in visual, performing, and media arts, and group activities associated with arts education were daunting. The arts have been described as a universal language that celebrates and honors culture, diversity, ethnicity, inclusion, and individual authenticity, as well as basic education in the United States. Consequently, the impact of pandemic mandates resulted in social, emotional, and psychological trauma for those affected, as people are born to dance, sing, act, create, make music, and play—individually and collectively. How have arts educators, students, and programs survived with resilience during this unprecedented time in history?