“Studies show that access to arts education in school offers distinct benefits to economically disadvantaged youth and students at risk of dropping out” ( Ruppert). The importance of visual and performing arts courses providing arts education has been debated for several years. Many feel that arts education has no real use and is a waste of time for those involved. But in reality “students at risk of dropping out cite their participation in the arts as a reason for staying in school” (Ruppert). The arts connect to individuals in today's American society in a way that makes them feel like they have a purpose. “Arts education offers students the opportunity to experience success, providing an important balance in their overall educational experience” (“Why the Arts Matter”). Students learn to explore various parts of possible enjoyments that will create a hobby that an individual will be proud of. Some parents do not approve of arts education because they believe it is a distraction in their children's educational environment. Most parents would prefer their children to be smart in core lessons, such as math or science, to guide them into careers that make 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 have talent in the performing arts and want to pursue that lifelong dream with their skills. “Neuroscientists continue to find clues about how the mental and physical activities required for the arts are so fundamental to the functioning of the brain” (Sousa). Art, therefore, plays a significant role in today's learning society. Arts education should be funded in all schools because it builds power skiing… middle of paper… intelligence: Lessons learned about investing in a well-rounded education.” Education Digest, 1 September 2009: n. page eLibrary. Network. October 27, 2013.Lynch, Grace Hwang. "The importance of art in child development." PBS Parents. PBS, n.d.: page n. Network. October 29, 2013.Nathan, Linda. “Why the arts make sense in education.” Phi Delta Kappan, November 1, 2009: n. page eLibrary. Network. October 27, 2013. Ruppert, Sandra S. “Critical Evidence of How the Arts Benefit Student Achievement.” Nasaa-arts.org. Np, 2006. Web. November 5, 2013. Smith, Fran. “Why art education is critical and who is doing it best.” Eutopia. The George Lucas Education Foundation, n.d.: n.pag. Network. October 29, 2013. Sousa, David A. “How the Arts Develop Young Brains.” AASA. AASA, December 2006. Web. November 5, 2013. “Why the Arts Matter for All Students.” Rochester City School District. School cables and Web. October 24. 2013.