Report: Boston Schools Need Improved Arts Education Standards

A new report on arts education calls for higher standards and consistency in Boston Public Schools.

WBUR's Andrea Shea has more.

The Boston Foundation report is largely based on surveys of school principals and arts non-profits.

Among the findings: While 75% elementary and middle schoolers get arts ed at least once a week, only 26% of High School kids meet that benchmark.

The report calls for more equity across the system, more private funding and the creation of an arts advisory board.

The Boston Foundation's Anne McQueen says even with the economic crisis, arts education should not be shortchanged .

ANNE MCQUEEN: We're also standing up and saying the arts should not be marginalized that they really are central.

Historically, arts programs are often the first thing to go when school budgets are cut.