“Studies show that access to arts education in school provides distinct benefits to economically disadvantaged youth and students at risk of abandon their studies” (Ruppert). The importance of visual and performing arts classes that provide arts education has been debated for several years. Many believe that arts education serves no real purpose and is a waste of time for those who participate in it. But in reality, “students at risk of dropping out point to their participation in the arts as a reason to stay in school” (Ruppert). The arts today connect with individuals in American society in a way that gives them a sense of purpose. “Arts education provides students with the opportunity to achieve success, providing an important balance in their overall educational experience” (“Why the Arts Matter”). Students learn to explore various parts of possible pleasures that will create a hobby the individual will be proud of. Some parents do not approve of arts education because they feel it is a distraction in their children's educational environment. Most parents prefer their children to be smart in basic courses, like math or science, in order to lead them toward a career that earns them more money. What parents don't know is that arts education is much more beneficial to a student's life than they think. Many students discover that they are talented in the performing arts and want to pursue their life's dream through their skills. “Neuroscientists continue to find clues about how the mental and physical activities necessary for the arts are so fundamental to brain function” (Sousa). Art therefore plays an important role in today's educational society. Arts education should be funded in all schools because it builds motor ski...... middle of paper ......rt Smarts: Lessons Learned About Investing in a Well-Rounded Education. Education Digest, September 1, 2009: n. page. Electronic library. Internet. October 27, 2013. Lynch, Grace Hwang. “The importance of art in child development.” PBS Parents. PBS, nd: n.pag. Internet. October 29, 2013. Nathan, Linda. “Why the arts are meaningful in education.” Phi Delta Kappan, November 1, 2009: b. page. Electronic library. Internet. October 27, 2013. Ruppert, Sandra S. “Critical Evidence How the Arts Benefit Students Achievement.” Nasaa-arts.org. NP, 2006. Web. November 5, 2013. Smith, Fran. “Why arts education is crucial and who does it best.” Edutopia. The George Lucas Education Foundation, nd: n.pag. Internet. October 29, 2013.Sousa, David A. “How the Arts Develop the Young Brain.” » AESA. AASA, December 2006. Web. November 5, 2013. “Why the Arts Matter for All Students.” » Rochester City School District. School Wires, and Web. October 24. 2013.