Utah State Board requests $3M for Beverly Taylor Sorensen Arts Learning Program expansion

During a recent meeting of the Public Education Appropriations Subcommittee on February 5, 2025, discussions centered around a significant funding request for the Beverly Taylor Sorensen Arts Learning Program (BTS Arts). This initiative aims to enhance the educational experience in elementary schools by integrating arts education into core subjects such as math, language arts, and science.

The BTS Arts program places qualified arts educators in schools, utilizing creative methods like dance, drama, music, and visual arts to reinforce traditional learning. This approach caters to diverse learning styles, particularly benefiting students who thrive through kinesthetic and tactile experiences. The program has garnered unanimous support from the Utah State Board of Education, highlighting its importance across varying educational perspectives.

Lisa Clough, the executive director of Artworks for Kids, along with board member Cindy Davis, presented the funding request, which seeks $3 million in ongoing support. This funding would allow for the hiring of BTS educators in 24 or more new schools, expanding the program's reach and impact. Clough emphasized the positive feedback from principals and parents, showcasing the program's effectiveness in enhancing student learning outcomes.

The committee's consideration of this appropriation reflects a growing recognition of the value of arts education in fostering a well-rounded curriculum. As schools increasingly seek innovative ways to engage students, the BTS Arts program stands out as a promising model for integrating creativity into academic learning. The outcome of this funding request will be pivotal in shaping the future of arts education in Utah's elementary schools.