States including Arkansas, Nebraska and Kansas have adopted the National Core Arts Standards recently released in October, including new guidelines for animation, computer design, film, and gaming.

The new standards "add media arts such as animation, film, gaming and computer design," according to an article on DistrictAdminstration.com. "They emphasize developing artistic ideas, refining them, and following projects through to completion. They also require students to analyze artworks, including by examining societal, cultural and historical contexts."

"Tight budgets and a fierce focus on standardized testing in math and English have led many district leaders to cut back on arts education in recent years. But advocates hope to help districts refocus on arts instruction that fosters innovation, creativity and collaboration," the article said. "All 50 states have some arts standards, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, many have not been updated in decades, and implementation varies widely."

According to the article, "only some states provide funding for mandated art classes. Twenty-five states and the District of Columbia required arts credits for high school graduation in 2014. And 17 states assessed student learning in the arts that year."

"The updated standards are not connected to the Common Core, but they promote the nation’s college and career readiness goals for students, said Marcia McCaffrey, president of the State Education Agency Directors of Arts Education in the article. "Employers are looking for students who are creative and innovative, who can take a process or project from beginning to end and understand all of the steps of revision, refinement, completion and collaboration."

According to the article, "the standards outline an age-appropriate progression of artistic study.

"They also provide a foundation for curriculum, instruction and assessment from preschool up through high school," the article said. "For example, dance standards start with preschool students improvising a routine that stops and starts on cue. By the end of high school, students should be able to design and choreograph original dances, and explain how their choices are used to intensify artistic intent."

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Article by Kassondra Granata, Education World Contributor