Some students who pursue classes in the fine arts feel as though others see these classes as “just a hobby” or an “easy A,” but for those who teach these courses and for those who excel in them, courses that expose students to acting, art, dance or singing, offer several benefits.

“Everyone, without exception, should take an art class,” said Art Teacher Michael Bale.

Specifically, Bale explained that every student should take an art class before graduating high school because it helps to make them more well-rounded students.

But because students only have eight credits for classes a year, with four being electives, many students argue they don’t have the space to take a fine arts class.

Others, though, try to make these classes a priority in their schedules.

“I personally really enjoy the arts and want to further my skill [and] ability for possible future careers I might work towards,” said Emma Aculado, freshman. “It’s extremely helpful that in high school we can explore in different arts that could help us think about our future careers.”

As Aculado mentions, the fine arts can prepare students in multiple ways.

Not only does it help them discover what they want to study in college and pursue as a career; it can educate students on their own thoughts, ideas and emotions.

Bale describes art as “life-changing and life-saving.”

As a result, many students choose art because it relieves stress.  Bale also said some students only stay in school because they get to go to art class every day.

Art, then, can have a significant impact on a student’s academic experience.

Not only can it offer them the will to achieve in school, it helps them view the world in a different, more creative way that can give them the advantage in the workforce.

Said Bale, “When you really study art, it changes the way you think about the world and how you handle problems.”