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Current research is pointing to the need for music. Why do we allow this omission in our schools. Fine Arts teachers are treated as if they are entertainers teaching "frills" that really aren't needed in the overall scheme of a student's life. Fortunately, there are exceptions at the local level.

Dear Mr. Reaser:

Thank you for your e-mail message supporting fine arts instruction, including music, in Virginia's public schools. I assure you that the Virginia Board of Education supports fine arts programs in public schools. Public school accreditation standards adopted by the Board of Education require one credit in fine or practical arts for high school graduation.

As you may know, the state has had Standards of Learning for fine arts and music. The standards have not been revised for a number of years. A plan is being developed by the Department of Education to revise the Standards of Learning for Fine Arts and Music. The plan will be presented to the Board of Education at a retreat scheduled for April 28-30 at the Curry School of Education at the University of Virginia.

We are aware of the valuable research into the role of music in the public schools, and we thank you for your comments. If further information is needed, please feel free to contact Theresa Lee, associate specialist for Fine Arts Education, at (804) 786-8078.