"Involvement in the arts is associated with gains in math, reading, cognitive ability, critical thinking, and verbal skill. Fine Arts learning can also improve motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork. They "can connect people more deeply to the world and open them to new ways of seeing," (2005, Rand Corp. Report) creating the foundation to forge social bonds and community cohesion."

                                    - Fran Smith, Edutopia, George Lucas Education Foundation