Apparently the FCAT (Florida’s Comprehensive Assessment Test) has raised its standards. Due to the stricter guidelines even more students will fail this test. A test which determines whether or not they will graduate high school. I understand the importance of assessing a student’s academic progress, but I do not think that the FCAT is the proper tool in gauging a student’s intellectual abilities. Now the school broad in Florida is using poor test scores as an excuse to get rid of The Arts in schools. Although I am no longer a high school student, I feel that the students are being robbed of a well rounded education. The artistic programs in schools help to stimulate the brain and motivate students. The Arts help develop a child’s creative abilities. Drawing, painting, music, dance, drama, and various other artistic options fuel our entertainment industry. Art is not only a source of entertainment but a source of inspiration. When children are not inspired or passionate they lose their drive to work hard.

I also want to say, if school systems have the money for sports programs then they better make room for the arts as well. Being physically fit is important but so is creative expression in an academic setting.