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Recognizing the week of September 14th to 19th, 2026, as National Arts in Education Week in the City of Philadelphia, and celebrating the essential role arts education plays in developing the next generation of creative thinkers, leaders, and community builders.
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WHEREAS, National Arts in Education week, established in 2010 and observed annually during the second week of September, affirms the essential role of arts education in fostering a well-rounded and enriching academic experience for young people; and
WHEREAS, Arts education spanning dance, music, theatre, media arts, literature and design, is a core academic subject and a cornerstone of a well-balanced education for students of all ages; and
WHEREAS, Research consistently demonstrates that access to arts education increases student engagement, improves attendance, strengthens graduation outcomes, and enhances mental health and emotional well-being, providing young people with powerful outlets for self-expression and confidence building; and
WHEREAS, The arts are a defining part of Philadelphia’s cultural identity. Reflected across the City’s renowned murals, historic institutions, diverse music traditions and vibrant creative communities, all of which reinforce Philadelphia’s long-standing commitment to artistic expression and innovation; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia City Hall will honor National Arts in Education Week 2026 with three exhibitions highlighting student creativity and collaboration. This exhibition was completed in partnership with Creative Philadelphia who have been constant stewards of ensuring that Philadelphia students have access to high-quality opportunities in the arts; and
WHEREAS, One exhibit, titled “Art for Social Justice,” invited Philly Youth Vote and Central High School students to create artistic interpretations of public policy issues and their interpretation for how we can solve these issues in Philadelphia. This project was led by Central High School teachers, Andrea Keefe and Thomas Quinn, who have focused on an arts curriculum that encourages students to empower themselves and express their ideas using visual arts and media; and
WHEREAS, A second exhibit, “A+Art Annual School District of Philadelphia Exhibition,” will highlight work created by teachers and students from six Philadelphia public schools, in partnership with the School District’s Office of Arts and Creative Learning. This exhibit will feature Solomon Solis Cohen School with artwork from the teacher Gloria Haag; Southwark Elementary School with artwork by teacher Aaron Kalinay; Jules E. Mastbaum High School with artwork by teacher Cristin Harrington; Sadie Alexander School with artwork by teacher Leila Falcon, Central High School with artwork by teachers Andrea Keefe and Heather Durkee; and William Meredith Elementary School with artwork by teacher Sonya Smith; and
WHEREAS, Another exhibit, titled “Fresh Perspectives,” invited students from the Children’s Scholarship Fund Philadelphia, to celebrate the 25th anniversary by having them explore themes of identity, community, freedom, and opportunity through their artistic mediums. This exhibit highlights students from St. Barnabas Catholic School, St. Martin of Tours, St. Malachy School, St. Martin de Porres, St. Frances Barini, St. Veronica School, St. Raymond of Penafort, Our Mother of Sorrows St. Ignatius of Loyola School, St. Helena-Incarnation School, Holy Cross Catholic School, and Our Mother of Consolation Parish School; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby recognizes the week of September 14th through September 19th, 2026, as National Arts in Education Week in the City of Philadelphia, and celebrates the essential role arts education plays in developing the next generation of creative thinkers, leaders, and community builders.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Creative Philadelphia and participating schools as a sincere expression of the Council’s gratitude to their commitment to uplifting student voices and artistic excellence throughout this celebration.
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