News
TEXAS MONTHLY:
“Fine Arts Programs Are the Jewels of Our Public School System! It’s Time We Finally Funded Them.”
The Texas Monthly February 2025 issue names arts education as the crown jewel of Texas public schools in its special education defining what our schools actually need! Share the link as a part of your advocacy effort and pick up your own copy.
March 20, 2025 - TAEC testifies on the impact of HB25 on loss of electives for students
A subcommittee of the House Public Health Committee heard testimony on HB 25 relating to health and nutrition standards to promote healthy living. If passed in its current version, the bill would increase physical activity in middle school from four to six semesters, potentially eliminating a full year elective in either seventh or eighth grade. Because of state and local requirements, electives for students to engage in sequential study in the arts in middle school is becoming more and more difficult. In addition, a proposed substitute bill will also add a ½ credit graduation requirement in nutrition education, taking away another full credit elective at the high school level in fine arts. TAEC is continuing to advocate for language change to eliminate these added course requirements for students. Mike Howard, Director of Fine Arts, Leander ISD, testified on behalf of TAEC as well as for Texas Fine Arts Administrators (TFAA).
March 6, 2025 - TMEA Executive Director and TAEC Co-Chair Joe Munoz delivers testimony to House Public Education Committee
On March 4, Joe Munoz delivered powerful testimony in support of HB 2, highlighting the importance of weighted fine arts funding. Munoz thanked lawmakers for recognizing fine arts' vital role in a well-rounded education, preparing students for the workforce, and strengthening the Texas economy — all the while building lifelong skills.
February 24, 2025 - House Public Education and Fine Arts Caucus Chair Brad Buckley shares Fine Arts thoughts at TAEC-sponsored Lunch and Learn Event at Capitol for legislative staffers.
On February 24th, TAEC hosted a Lunch and Learn at the Capitol to spotlight the vital role fine arts education plays in preparing Texas students for the future workforce. With labor shortages and a rapidly evolving job market, creative and adaptable thinking—skills taught in fine arts classrooms—are more essential than ever.
Special guest Chairman Buckley shared a personal and inspiring story about how fine arts programs in high school shaped the lives of his daughters—equipping them with lifelong skills that continue to positively impact their careers and personal growth long after graduation.
TAEC leadership also presented compelling data showing how fine arts education supports Texas' economy and helps develop the critical skills employers want—like creativity, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
Legislative staffer also learned how they can get involved through the Fine Arts Education Caucus and were encouraged to advocate for weighted fine arts funding, currently included in HB 2, to ensure all Texas students have access to quality fine arts education.